About 10 years ago, an interesting experiment was conducted to see if the Challenger’s “functional” air scoops served any real purpose. Here are the results of testing using a digital thermometer and wireless probe with a range of maximum 139.8* F. All readings were taken from the same locations in the engine bay and under the same atmospheric conditions of 95F degrees and 51% humidity. During testing, the engine coolant temperature was in the 215 to 219F degree range. At idle there was no change, but when the vehicle was moving there was as much as a 20 degree difference at 70MPH (Note- The maximum the probe was capable of reading was 139.8F). It was suspected that the difference between the left and right fenders was due to the coolant bottle and overflow hose being on the driver's side. Those two components put off quite a bit of heat. So, it was concluded that the air scoops are of some benefit in helping to keep the engine cooler. Right Fender- Non-Functional vs Functional Hood Scoops 110.4F (50MPH) 107.4F (50MPH) 107.4F (70MPH) 104.6F (70MPH) Left Fender- Non-Functional vs Functional Hood Scoops 138.0F (50MPH) 126.1F (50MPH) MAX (70MPH) 120.5F (70MPH) Center- Non-Functional vs Functional Hood Scoops MAX (50MPH) MAX (50MPH) MAX (70MPH) 131.0F (70MPH)
Speaking of Challenger air intake systems, I found a site online that tested a stock Scat Pack against a Shaker hood equipped version to see if the shaker hood offered any benefit. Surprisingly, testing verified that the shaker caused higher IAT readings so therefore worse engine output.
I just swapped my RT dummy vents for active vents. I’m sure any fresh air under the hood is a good thing. I know when its parked after an outing you can feel the heat venting out.
The air in the new shaker air scoop takes a circuitous route to the throttle body. The original shakers on the 1970-1971 Challengers and 'Cudas were mounted directly on top of the carburetor. At the track, they were good for 5 hp. due to the cold air and ram effect at the top end.
I have been looking at shaker kits from Cervini’s and Autoform. I’m not sure I can use either with my Edelbrock intake and fuel rails. I think if I do try one I’d go with Autoform, the design is a true ram air type bringing air through the filter in the scoop and connects directly to the throttle body. I really like the car they used on their site as well!! http://autoformgroup.com/index.php?...mart_product_id=83&virtuemart_category_id=212
Actually, I'd bet that's not the case. In order to take advantage of "ram-air effect" you need to place the scoop in a high-pressure zone. Unfortunately, the middle of the hood is a "low-pressure" zone.
