Does your Ram 3500 Diesel feel like it’s missing a little something? Maybe you’ve heard whispers about cold air intakes and wondered if they’re the secret ingredient to unlock your truck’s full potential. You’re not alone! Many diesel owners want more power and better sound from their tough trucks, but the world of cold air intakes can be a bit confusing.
Choosing the right cold air intake for your Ram 3500 Diesel can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, different designs, and claims that can make your head spin. You want something that actually works, won’t cause problems, and sounds great, but how do you know which one is the best fit for *your* truck?
In this post, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll explore what a cold air intake actually does for your diesel, what to look for when you’re shopping, and some popular options that owners love. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer picture and feel confident in picking the perfect cold air intake to make your Ram 3500 Diesel roar.
Our Top 5 Cold Air Intake For Ram 3500 Diesel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cold Air Intake For Ram 3500 Diesel Detailed Reviews
1. VVORHSBELL Cold Air Intake Pipe Kit w/Filter Compatible with 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500 3500 6.7L Cummins Diesel
Rating: 9.0/10
Give your 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 with the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine a boost with the VVORHSBELL Cold Air Intake Pipe Kit. This kit is designed to help your truck breathe easier, potentially leading to better performance and a more satisfying driving experience.
What We Like:
- This kit is made from strong aluminum alloy and steel, so it resists rust and lasts a long time.
- The pipes are carefully shaped using CNC machines to make sure air flows smoothly, which can improve how your engine runs.
- You get four filters with the kit, giving you spares.
- It’s a good option for anyone looking to upgrade their Cummins engine’s air intake.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to double-check your truck’s make, model, and year before buying to make sure this kit fits.
- While the kit includes multiple filters, the specific brand or quality of these extra filters isn’t detailed.
This VVORHSBELL Cold Air Intake Pipe Kit offers a solid upgrade for your Cummins diesel. It’s built with quality materials and designed for better airflow, making it a worthwhile consideration for truck owners.
2. Boosted Performance 6.7 Cummins Performance Cold Air Intake System Dodge Ram 2500/3500 (2007.5-2018) + WHP
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to give your Dodge Ram 6.7 Cummins the power and efficiency it deserves? This Boosted Performance Cold Air Intake System is designed to do just that! It’s made for 2007.5 to 2018 RAM 2500 and 3500 HD diesel trucks. You’ll notice a big difference in how your truck performs, how much power it has, and even how much gas it uses.
What We Like:
- Big Airflow Boost: It lets over 50% more air into your engine than the stock system. This means your engine can breathe better.
- More Horsepower and Torque: Expect an extra 10-15 horsepower and 20-25 foot-pounds of torque. Your truck will feel more powerful.
- Faster Turbo Spool: Your turbo will spin up quicker, giving you power right when you need it.
- Better Throttle Response: The truck will react faster when you press the gas pedal.
- Improved Fuel Economy: You can see a 1-2 MPG increase. This saves you money on gas.
- High-Quality Parts: It uses top-notch S&B filters and strong aluminum pipes. The wrinkle black coating helps keep intake air cooler.
- Easy Installation: It’s a direct bolt-on part. No extra modifications are needed. It’s a simple plug-and-play upgrade.
- Awesome Sound: You’ll hear a great intake sound from your 6.7L diesel engine.
What Could Be Improved:
- Filter Color Choice: The product description specifically mentions a “Red Filter.” Offering other filter color options could appeal to more users who want to customize their engine bay.
This cold air intake system is a fantastic upgrade for your 6.7 Cummins. It delivers real performance gains and improves your truck’s efficiency with an easy installation process.
3. 4-Inch Cold Air Intake Kit with Filter Compatible with 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins Diesel
Rating: 8.8/10
Boost your 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins Diesel’s power with this 4-inch cold air intake kit. This kit is built to last with tough aluminum alloy and steel. It makes your engine run better, giving you quicker responses and more horsepower. It’s designed to help your engine breathe easier, making it perform at its best.
What We Like:
- It fits your 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins Diesel perfectly.
- The strong aluminum alloy and steel parts resist rust and last a long time.
- You’ll feel a difference in how your truck responds and get more power.
- It’s easy to put on yourself with all the parts included.
- You get four filters, so you have spares.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit only comes with one set of screws and one washer, so be careful not to lose them.
This cold air intake kit is a solid upgrade for your Cummins diesel. It’s a straightforward way to get more performance out of your truck.
4. 4 Inch Intake Pipe Perfit Formance Cold Air Intake Induction Kit with Filter 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Fit for Dodge Ram 2500 3500 5.9L L6 Turbo Diesel (Black Tube & Red Filter)
Rating: 8.8/10
Give your 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 with the 5.9L turbo diesel engine a boost with this Perfit Formance Cold Air Intake Induction Kit. This kit features a sleek black aluminum tube and a vibrant red filter, designed to help your truck breathe better and perform stronger.
What We Like:
- Power and Torque Boost: Expect an increase of 8-10% horsepower and 6-10% torque, making your Ram feel more powerful.
- Better Fuel Economy: This intake can help improve your gas mileage, saving you money on fuel.
- Awesome Sound: Enjoy a more aggressive and attractive intake noise when you accelerate.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: The aluminum alloy tube is built to last, resisting high temperatures and corrosion, unlike plastic alternatives that can crack.
- Easy Installation: The kit includes all necessary mounting accessories, so no extra parts are needed. It’s designed for a straightforward installation.
- Vehicle Specific Fitment: Precisely designed for 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models with the 5.9L L6 Turbo Diesel engine.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Option Limitation: The filter is only available in red, so if you prefer a different color, you’ll need to source a compatible filter separately.
- Requires Vehicle Verification: It’s crucial to match your vehicle’s details on the left top before buying to ensure compatibility.
This cold air intake kit offers a significant upgrade for your Dodge Ram’s performance and sound. It’s a solid investment for diesel truck owners looking for more power and efficiency.
5. 4inch Cold Air Intake Kit Fits 2007.5 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 3500 6.7L Cummins Diesel(Red)
Rating: 9.3/10
Give your 2007.5-2012 Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 with the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine a boost with this awesome red 4-inch Cold Air Intake Kit. This kit is built to help your truck breathe better, which means more power and better fuel economy. It’s made from strong aluminum alloy and steel, so it’s tough and won’t rust easily. Installation is straightforward, and it comes with everything you need to get it installed.
What We Like:
- Improves gas mileage, saving you money at the pump.
- Helps your engine last longer.
- Makes your truck respond faster when you press the gas pedal.
- Gives your engine a horsepower boost.
- Saves money on replacement filters because the included filter is designed to last.
- CNC mandrel bent tubes ensure maximum air can flow into your engine.
- The durable aluminum alloy and steel construction resists corrosion.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit is designed for specific Dodge Ram models and years, so it won’t fit other vehicles.
- While the instructions are usually clear, some users might find the installation process a bit tricky without some mechanical knowledge.
This cold air intake kit is a fantastic upgrade for your Cummins diesel. You’ll notice a difference in performance and efficiency.
Your Ram 3500 Diesel Needs a Breath of Fresh Air: The Cold Air Intake Buying Guide
Is your Ram 3500 diesel truck feeling a little sluggish? Do you want to give it a boost in power and fuel efficiency? A cold air intake system might be just what your truck needs. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Why a Cold Air Intake for Your Ram 3500 Diesel?
Your diesel engine needs air to run. The colder and denser the air, the more oxygen it can pack into the engine. More oxygen means a bigger bang, which translates to more power and better fuel economy. A cold air intake replaces your truck’s stock airbox with a specially designed system that pulls in cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a cold air intake, keep these important features in mind:
- Filter Type: Look for high-flow, reusable filters. These are often made of cotton gauze or synthetic material. They let more air pass through than paper filters.
- Intake Tubing: The tube that carries the air to your engine should be smooth and have a larger diameter than the stock one. This allows for unrestricted airflow. Materials like polished aluminum or durable plastic are common.
- Heat Shielding: A good heat shield keeps hot air from the engine bay away from your new intake. This is crucial for maintaining that cold air advantage.
- Ease of Installation: Most kits are designed for DIY installation. Check reviews to see if the instructions are clear and if all necessary hardware is included.
- Sound: Cold air intakes can change the sound of your diesel. Some people like the deeper, more aggressive growl. Others prefer a quieter operation.
Important Materials
The materials used in a cold air intake affect its performance and durability.
- Filters: Cotton gauze filters are popular for their high airflow and reusability. They need to be cleaned and re-oiled periodically. Synthetic filters are also a good option and often require less maintenance.
- Tubing: Polished aluminum is lightweight and looks great. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is also used and is known for its heat-insulating properties.
- Heat Shields: Typically made from durable plastic or powder-coated metal, these shields are designed to block engine heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improved Quality:
- Excellent Fitment: A kit that fits your specific Ram 3500 diesel model perfectly will perform better.
- Superior Airflow Design: Smooth, mandrel-bent tubing and a well-designed filter housing maximize air delivery.
- Effective Heat Shielding: A properly sealed heat shield is vital for keeping intake air cold.
- Reduced Quality:
- Poor Fitment: Gaps or incorrect connections can allow hot air in, defeating the purpose of the intake.
- Restrictive Tubing: Kinked or narrow tubing will limit airflow.
- Cheap Materials: Low-quality plastic or thin metal can crack or warp over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many Ram 3500 diesel owners report noticeable improvements after installing a cold air intake. Common feedback includes:
- Increased Horsepower and Torque: Especially felt when towing or hauling heavy loads.
- Improved Throttle Response: Your truck might feel more eager to accelerate.
- Better Fuel Economy: While not a massive jump, many users see a slight improvement in MPG.
- Aggressive Engine Sound: A deeper, more satisfying rumble when you step on the gas.
This upgrade is great for daily driving, towing, off-roading, or any situation where you want your Ram 3500 diesel to perform at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cold Air Intakes for Ram 3500 Diesel
Q: Will a cold air intake void my truck’s warranty?
A: Generally, installing a cold air intake will not void your truck’s warranty. However, if the intake causes a specific problem that a dealer can prove is directly related to the modification, they may deny a warranty claim for that particular issue.
Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain?
A: Gains vary depending on the specific intake system and your truck’s current condition. Most cold air intakes for Ram 3500 diesels offer modest gains, typically in the range of 5-15 horsepower and a similar amount of torque.
Q: Do I need a tune for a cold air intake?
A: For most basic cold air intakes, a tune is not required. However, to get the most out of the increased airflow, a custom engine tune is highly recommended. A tune can optimize fuel delivery and timing for the new airflow characteristics.
Q: How often do I need to clean or replace the filter?
A: Reusable filters typically need to be cleaned and re-oiled every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, or sooner if you drive in dusty conditions. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific filter.
Q: Can a cold air intake improve my truck’s sound?
A: Yes, many users report a more aggressive and deeper exhaust note from their diesel engine after installing a cold air intake. This is due to the increased airflow and the design of the intake system.
Q: Is a cold air intake difficult to install?
A: Most cold air intake kits are designed for bolt-on installation and can be installed by a DIYer with basic tools and mechanical knowledge in a few hours. Instructions are usually included.
Q: Will a cold air intake help with towing?
A: Yes, the increased airflow and potential power gains can be beneficial when towing, as your engine will be able to breathe more easily under load.
Q: What is the difference between a short ram and a true cold air intake?
A: A true cold air intake typically routes the filter away from the engine bay, often down towards the fender well, to draw in the coldest possible air. A short ram intake places the filter closer to the engine, which may not provide as much of a temperature advantage.
Q: How much does a cold air intake typically cost?
A: The price for a quality cold air intake for a Ram 3500 diesel can range from $200 to $500, depending on the brand, materials, and features.
Q: Can I use a K&N filter with any cold air intake kit?
A: While K&N is a popular brand, you should use the filter specifically designed for the cold air intake kit you purchase. Using an incompatible filter may not provide a proper seal or optimal airflow.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!