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AEM Replacement Filter is Designed to Boost HP to Select Honda and Acura Vehicles

2017 Honda Ridgeline at the 2016 SEMA show with dirt bike in bed

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline can benefit from added airflow from an AEM replacement air filter

In the world of cars, Honda is like everybody’s mom. It knows exactly what its customers need, even before they do. Then like a steaming plate of comfort food, it serves up a selection of vehicles that are perfectly suited for modern life. Take for example the 2016-2017 Acura MDX. It’s a midsize SUV that is both a luxurious isolation chamber and a practical crossover. The 2016-2017 Honda Pilot offers a family of 7–8 enough room, cupholders, and power outlets to survive a trip across the country. And the innovative 2017 Honda Ridgeline gives people all the versatility of a pickup, with literally none of the drawbacks. All 3 of these ‘just right’ vehicles are powered by the new Honda Earth Dreams 3.5L V6, which provides plenty of punch, and laudable fuel economy as well. But if you want to improve the acceleration and efficiency of your Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, or Honda Ridgeline, then have a look at the AEM 28-50041.

More Air = More Power

The reason that a Honda 3.5L V6 can make such great power without consuming a lot of fuel has to do with its design. It’s got a lot of clever technology, like direct injection, and a 3-stage VTEC System that can shut down 3 of the cylinders when you’re cruising to save fuel. But no matter how many microchips it has, the Earth-Dreams 3.5L V6 is still basically an air pump. Oxygen gets sucked into the cylinders, where it’s consumed by the fire that occurs during combustion. This creates rotational energy that turns the crankshaft, and eventually the wheels. If you put more air into the cylinders, that fire/detonation can get hotter and create even more energy to turn the wheels. However, the stock Honda air intake system has an inherent flaw, namely the OE Honda air filter. You see, it’s made from paper, and it takes a lot of pressure to force air through it. Any dirt particles that may be in the air, get stuck on the surface of the filter, usually between the pleats/folds. Obviously, this prevents dirt from getting into the engine, where it can cause serious damage. However, this type of ‘surface loading’ filter actually reduces the amount of air being injected into the cylinders. Especially when that layer of dirt builds up on the surface.

An AEM 28-50041 DryFlow air filter, on the other hand, is made from a non-woven synthetic material, sandwiched between two layers of sturdy aluminum mesh. This low restriction material is able to flow more air than the paper Honda air filter, which allows more air to get into the cylinders prior to combustion. As the gasoline burns, the additional oxygen molecules intensify the heat, so more energy/power gets released from the same amount of fuel.

Improved Throttle Response

An AEM 28-50041 DryFlow Air Filter will improve performance by eliminating airflow restrictions

An AEM 28-50041 DryFlow air filter will improve performance by eliminating airflow restrictions

Because of the improved airflow, an AEM 28-50041 DryFlow air filter will dramatically improve the throttle response of your 2016-2017 Honda Pilot, 2017 Honda Ridgeline or 2016-2017 Acura MDX. Every time you step on the gas, extra air will rush into the cylinders, allowing your Honda EarthDreams 3.5L V6 to make power at lower RPMs. You will notice an engine that is more eager to respond, and a more aggressive engine sound when you really get on the “Go Pedal”.

Protect Your Engine & Warranty

Compared to traditional Honda performance air filters, the AEM 28-50041 DryFlow air filter has additional pleats that are 1/4-in deeper than you would find in a typical cotton gauze air filter. This increases both the flow rate and filtration because the 3-Dimensional synthetic fibers trap up to 99% of airborne contaminants. It will then hold that dirt for up to 50,000 miles before cleaning is required (depending on driving conditions). The AEM 28-50041 air filter is also a direct-fit replacement for your OE Honda 3.5L V6 air filter. So your factory warranty will not be affected. Plus, it’s 50-state legal too.

Save Time & Money

The synthetic AEM 28-50041 DryFlow Air Filter is washable & guaranteed for life

The synthetic AEM 28-50041 DryFlow air filter is washable & guaranteed for life

Cleaning a reusable AEM performance air filter is simple and hassle-free because there is no messy oil treatment required. You’ll also save money because you won’t have to shell out for a replacement Honda air filter every 10,000 miles. And your investment is guaranteed by the AEM Lifetime Limited Warranty. So if you’re ready to improve the performance, sound, and longevity of your 2016-2017 Acura MDX, 2016-2017 Honda Pilot, or 2017 Honda Ridgeline, then pick up an AEM 28-50041 today!

The AEM 28-50041 is designed to fit the following vehicles:

2017 HONDA RIDGELINE 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2017 HONDA PILOT 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2017 ACURA MDX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2016 HONDA PILOT 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2016 ACURA MDX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models

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Chris Forsberg Builds a Twin Turbo Nissan 370Z, a Big Shift From Previous V8 Setup

Photo by Larry Chen

Chris Forsberg switched from a V8 engine program to a Twin Turbo engine program for the 2017 season

After becoming Formula Drift Champion for the third time in 2016, Chris Forsberg decided to change things up with his program. Forsberg made the decision to move away from the V8 engine program that powered all three of his championship wins. Now, a turbocharged engine package with a reduced number of cylinders in the motor but increased power output via a pair of Garrett turbochargers powers his 370Z. The shift in engine choice also came with a staffing change in the pits of Chris Forsberg Racing. Forsberg would join Ryan Tuerck in trusting Nameless Performance with support duties, aligning the racing team with the friendship that Forsberg and Tuerck had formed away from Formula Drift many years ago that has lead to many off-track projects away from Formula Drift. Together, Forsberg and Nameless Performance would revamp the same Nissan 370Z chassis that Forsberg drove to his third championship last year to become the fireball-spitting car that you see on track today.

Photo by Larry Chen

Chris Forsberg captured his first podium under twin turbocharged power at the Formula D Texas event

Moving to the VQ37 motor gave Forsberg an opportunity to return the factory engine back under the hood of his Nissan 370Z, a scenario that’s becoming increasingly rare in drifting competition. This also helped increase the visibility of several sponsorship partners that Forsberg held with projects away from Formula Drift competition, most notably via the pair of Garrett GTX3071R turbochargers. The turbos were paired with Nameless Performance turbo manifolds, a Nameless Performance AntiLag kit, and a pair of Turbosmart wastegates that shoot flames out of the hood between shifts. With more than 40 pounds of boost pressuring the entire system, the setup pushes more than 1,000 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels.

Some early season testing caused some head gasket issues, and the Nameless Performance team tested a few different configurations before finding the right balance of power and reliability. The current setup uses an RJ Manufacturing engine block that has been increased to a 4.0L displacement via a Brian Crower 98mm stroker kit, with 11:1 compression JE Pistons, Supertech Performance valve springs and retainers, Jim Wolf 272 degree camshafts, and a custom drysump oiling system to keep everything lubricated. Air is ingested through a pair of AEM filters before flowing into the Greddy GTR upper intake manifold, which is fitted to the block via an RJ Manufacturing lower intake manifold conversion. The VP Racing C85 fuel is injected via Deatschwerks 1500 cc injectors into the cylinder, while a full catalog of Motec electronics take care of the electrical side of things. That catalog includes a Motec M150 ECU and a pair of Motec PDM15 power distribution units that are controlled by a Motec 15-button keypad and monitored by the Motec C125 dash.

Photo by Larry Chen

Forsberg's suspension setup on his Nissan 370Z remains largely unchanged from previous seasons

Overall, the rest of the chassis and suspension remains largely unchanged from previous years. Forsberg did switch to BC Racing XR coilovers this season, but the full catalog of Voodoo13 billet control arms, camber arms, toe arms, traction arms, and steering angle kit are the same suspension units that Forsberg utilized in his championship-winning season last year. Several other parts like the Advanced Clutch Technology triple-plate clutch, Hollinger 6-speed sequential transmission, Winters quick-change differential, and Wilwood calipers (including dual calipers on the rear axle to help initiate and control drifts) are all longstanding partnerships that Forsberg continues with this latest chassis. Outside the car, the Nismo body kit and spoiler, Seibon carbon fiber panels, and APR Performance splitter and mirrors are also carryovers from previous years. Each pass Forsberg makes on track happens through SSR GTX01 wheels and, most importantly, Hankook RS4 tires in 275/40R18 sizing in the rear and 245/40R18 sizing in front.

Photo by Larry Chen

Forsberg and his Nameless Performance team tested a few different engine configurations in 2017

After a few events of learning the chassis and getting used to the power delivery, Forsberg finally strung together several strong tandem battles at the Texas Motor Speedway event in September. Forsberg eliminated Robbie Nishida, Michael Essa, Vaughn Gittin Jr., and Odi Bakchis in tandem battles before finally falling to current series leader James Deane in the final. Overall, the second place finish was Forsberg’s record-setting 34th podium finish in Formula Drift, with no other driver holding more than 24 podium finishes. While Forsberg isn’t in the chase for the 2017 championship, the team is confident that they will return to championship form in coming seasons.

Photo courtesy Chris Forsberg Racing

Chris Forsberg's 370Z utilizes a Greddy GTR intake manifold thanks to a RJ Manufacturing adaptor

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Bring Your 2009-2017 370Z Up to NISMO Horsepower with an AEM Cold Air Intake

Make up the power difference between the 2009-2017 Nissan 370Z with the 3.7L engine and the NISMO

Make up the power difference between the 2009-2017 Nissan 370Z with the 3.7L engine and the NISMO

When it was introduced for the 2009 model year, the Nissan 370Z was a complete departure from its predecessor, the 350Z. The new 370Z featured a four-inch shorter wheelbase with a reduction in overall length of 2.7 inches. The rear track was widened by 2.2 inches and there was a slight reduction in height. At the same time, the chassis was re-engineered to provide a 10-percent increase up front and 22-percent increase out back in torsional rigidity. With a fully independent front and rear suspension, it’s a sports coupe seeking a deserving engine.

And Nissan developed one - the engine in the 370Z was a new development as well. Known by its internal code, VQ37VHR, it is a V6 engine produced by Nissan with a displacement of 3.7L. It has an aluminum block with DOHC four-valve aluminum heads. The VQ37VHR was the first production engine to incorporate Nissan’s variable valve timing technology VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift). Compression ratio is 11.1:1 with a bore of 95.5 mm and a stroke of 86 mm, the short stroke evidence of its 7000 rpm redline. The VQ37VHR produces 332 horsepower in the base-level 370Z.

The AEM Cold Air Intake includes provisions for the MAF sensors and PCV hoses

The AEM intake for 2009-2017 Nissan 370Z provides heat shields to protect the oversized filters

The 370Z NISMO package provides adds an incremental 15 horsepower for about $15K more on the sticker. AEM has a way to gain power and save yourself a good deal of money at the same time. The AEM 21-821DS cold air intake adds an estimated 15 horsepower to a standard 2009-2017 3.7L 370Z, as measured at the rear wheels on a chassis dynamometer. While exact numbers aren’t available, it’s likely that the increase exceeds the 18 horsepower difference measured at the flywheel, eliminating any drivetrain losses.

The AEM 21-821DS air intake system replaces the OEM plastic air boxes and flat panel air filters with powdercoated heat shields that better reject high underhood temperatures protecting two tapered conical air filters with significantly more surface area of the OEM filters.

The two red AEM 21-202DOSK Dryflow filters utilize a non-woven synthetic filter medium optimized for high air flow, improved performance, and excellent filtration characteristics. In fact, the Dryflow filter captures up to 99% of any harmful contaminants that could damage your engine.

From the filter, intake air passes through a pair of intake tubes fabricated from mandrel-bent aluminum tubes that have a durable gray powdercoat finish. In addition, the intake tubes accommodate the OEM mass air flow sensors and PCV hoses.

The large AEM air boxes accomodates oversized Dryflow air filters for increased power

With the hood closed, the seals on the top of the air boxes provide a barrier against engine heat

The AEM 21-821DS cold air intake is a straightforward modification that takes just a few hours to install, guided by fully-illustrated instructions that are included in the packaging. Only a few tools are required for the installation. The AEM 21-821DS utilizes only the factory mounting locations, so there are no holes to drill or permanent modifications to make.

You can expect the two AEM 21-202DOSK air filters to provide reliable service for about 100,000 miles with proper maintenance (depending on driving conditions). Cleaning is quick and straightforward and consists of an application of AEM 1-1000 synthetic air filter cleaner the filters. The AEM cleaner loosens and dissolves dirt and grime collected on the filters. After an application of the cleaner, the filters need only be rinsed with water until clean, dried, and then reinstalled in the car.

The AEM 21-821DS is designed to fit the following vehicles:

2017 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2016 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2015 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2014 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2013 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2012 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2011 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2010 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
2009 NISSAN 370Z 3.7L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models

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Add an Estimated 11 Horsepower to Your 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport 1.6L Turbo

The installation of the AEM 21-817C cold air intake kit adds a professional touch under the hood

The installation of the AEM 21-817C cold air intake kit adds a professional touch under the hood

If you’ve already purchased a 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport, or are planning to do so, then you’re likely aware that the approximately $4,000 premium over the standard Elantra was money well-spent. For example, at that price, you probably purchased the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic – or saved about a grand and got a slick-shifting six-speed manual.

In addition, the Sport’s 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 54 more horsepower than the standard model, and a modern multilink rear suspension replaces the old-fashioned torsion-beam axle used in other versions of the Elantra. The front brakes are upgraded to 12-inch diameter rotors, and it comes with exclusive 18-inch wheels with performance all-season tires all the way around.

Mandrel bending assures that the radius of all curves is smooth and doesn't disrupt airflow

The intake tube is manufactured from high-grade, mandrel-bent aluminum tubing

The performance hub around which all these goodies revolve is the engine: Hyundai’s G4FJ. It’s an upgraded version of Hyundai’s 1.6L all-aluminum Gamma GDi engine, but with a twin-scroll turbocharger, air-to-air intercooler, direct fuel injection system, and dual CVVT valve operation all added that make the difference.

That difference propels the Sport to a 0-60 dash in about 6.3 seconds, which was muscle car category not too long ago. And while no one is about to complain about 201 horsepower under the hood, why not add more with an AEM 21-817C cold air intake, designed to deliver an estimated 11 incremental at-the-wheel horsepower. The cool part is that those 11 ponies can be unleashed in about an hour using just a few common hand tools.

The results of AEM testing are that a stock 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport 1.6 turbo generated 163 horsepower and 171 ft-lb of torque on the chassis dynamometer. With the AEM 21-817C bolted to the test vehicle, power jumped to 174 hp at 5400 rpm and 182 ft-lb of torque at 5400 rpm, as measured at the drive wheels.

The air intake system ingeniously capitalizes on the large, direct-flowing OEM intake duct so only cold, fresh, outside air can reach the air filter. Cooler air is denser, carrying additional oxygen to which your engine, where the computer, in turn, adds more fuel, the trick in making more horsepower.

The centerpiece of the AEM 21-817C air intake system is a seven-inch non-woven synthetic filter media, which is a highly-efficient modern material. The filter is mounted low and to the front of the car where it can take full advantage of the fresh incoming air as well as being sited far from power-robbing engine heat.

The complete air intake system consists of the AEM 21-2157DK low restriction air filter, high-quality mandrel-bent aluminum tubing, and all hardware required for the installation. The kit also accommodates all factory emissions and vacuum lines. OEM mounting brackets are utilized to allow for quick and easy installation, and the kit requires no drilling to install.

Complete detailed and illustrated installation instructions are included in the box

Everything needed to install your new AEM 21-817C is included in the box

No need to service your filter until about 100,000 miles (depending on your driving conditions) with an application of AEM 1-1000 synthetic air filter cleaner that loosens and dissolves dirt and grime build up on synthetic filters so they can be rinsed clean with water. Then just allow the filter to dry in the sun, and when no longer damp, can be installed on the car and ready for another 100,000 miles of driving.

The AEM 21-817C is designed for the following vehicles:

2017 HYUNDAI ELANTRA 1.6L L4 Fuel Injection - All Models

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2016 Lexus 200t Gets an Estimated Boost of 10 Horsepower with AEM 21-824C Cold Air Intake

AEM Cold Air Intake Systems are designed to add horsepower and torque

The aerodynamically-verfied dual diameter aluminum intake tube allows more air into the engine

Introduced as part of the revamped GS model line for 2016, the GS200t became the entry-level vehicle, positioned below the more powerful 311 horsepower GS350. While at 241 horsepower, the Lexus 2.0L four cylinder is no lightweight, AEM can help close the gap with the GS350 with its 21-824C cold air intake kit that adds an estimated 10 horsepower at the drive wheels.

The sophisticated Toyota 8AR-FTS 2.0L inline four-cylinder DOHC engine utilized by Lexus features twin direct port fuel injection, VVT-iW, and a twin-scroll turbocharger developed in-house by Toyota rather than by a third party. Compressed intake air passes through a liquid-cooled intercooler that lowers intake air temperature before it enters the combustion chamber. On the exit side of the turbo, a variable wastegate valve improves efficiency. The engine is backed by an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.

With the AEM 21-824C air intake system installed, intake air enters the system through the AEM Dryflow air filter, through an aerodynamically-engineered dual diameter mandrel-bent intake tube to the turbo inlet. A precision-dimensioned heat shield fits tightly with the factory pressurized air feed to channel fresh air to the Dryflow air filter, so there’s never a shortage of fresh intake air.

As the 2.0L Lexus GS200t is turbocharged, it has the capacity for increased horsepower. The more cool, fresh air you’re able to draw through the turbocharger and into the intake, the engine’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) will respond by adding more fuel. The equation is simple: cool air plus more fuel equals more power. The result is a large, consistent power gain throughout the engine’s rpm range.

The heat shield and filter are designed to be located in the original OEM air box space

The heat shield isolates the filter from underhood heat allowing only cold air to flow to the intake

The ECU, which is, in essence, a computer, requires a means by which it can shed its heat. AEM engineers have relocated the ECU to mount directly on the intake tube so as to reduce the temperature under which it operates.

A large AEM 21-2113DK Dryflow filter is at the head of the system. The filter material itself is an innovative high performance engineered material. The washable, non-woven synthetic filter medium has been chosen due to its ability to deliver high air flow, excellent filtration, and improved performance. In fact, a Dryflow filter captures up to 99% of harmful contaminants before they have a chance to reach your engine.

Under normal conditions, an AEM Dryflow air filters typically won’t require service until about 100,000 miles of driving. If you’re traveling in duty or dirty conditions on a fairly regular basis, AEM recommends that you inspect your filter more frequently.

The AEM 21-824C cold air intake is a relatively straightforward DIY modification that takes just a few hours to install, even for someone with little mechanical experience. Tools required are those that just about everyone has in their garage. Only factory mounting points are used for the installation of the AEM 21-824C, so there is no need to drill holes or otherwise make permanent modifications to your Lexus.

Complete detailed and illustrated installation instructions are included in the shipping carton

Everything needed to install your new AEM 21-824C is included in the box

Cleaning of the filter is straightforward and consists of the removal of the filter from the vehicle, and an application of AEM 1-1000 synthetic air filter cleaner. The AEM cleaner loosens and dissolves dirt and grime collected by the filter, after which the filter need only be rinsed with water until it runs clear, air dried, and reinstalled.

The AEM 21-824C is designed to fit the following vehicles:

2016 LEXUS GS200T 2.0L L4 Fuel Injection - All Models

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