Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: How to Make and Install Cold Air Intake

Get more air flow into your Jeep's motor! This article will show you how.

By Piyush Kayastha - September 2, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

Most vehicle's air intake systems are designed with the ability to allow air to flow directly into the motor for proper consumption and throttle. On the market today, there are several different types of aftermarket air intake systems available. The main benefits are increased airflow as well as cooler engine temperatures. This in turn allows slight increase in power at the throttle. This could potentially double as a slight increase in fuel mileage. Most people usually opt for the "cold air" intakes, as colder air is denser and can add a slight bit more power to the throttle over normal intakes, which usually suffer from heat soak by being too close to the engine itself.

Materials Needed

  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Water and soap

Step 1 – Remove existing airbox

The current air filter system needs to be removed before installing the new system.

  • Using a flat head screwdriver, pry the clamps for the pipe connecting to the airbox.
  • Pull crank case tube away from the airbox.
  • Pry clips on edges of the airbox with the screwdriver.
  • Lift off the top of the airbox.
  • Discard the old filter.
  • Figure 1. Unclip the intake tube.
  • Figure 2. Top of airbox removed.

Pro Tip

The inside of the bottom half of the airbox may be quite dirty. It is wise to clean this up using water/soap mixture and then drying thoroughly.

Step 2 – Assemble new air intake

The AirAid Cold Air Intake system comprises of a new 3" pipe, new air filter, gasket seal, hardware, and heat shield/panels. It is wise to assemble this ahead of time.

  • Insert intake tube into heat shield/panels and secure with provided screws.
  • Secure panels on both sides with provided screws.
  • Use this time to lay down the heat-sealing gasket.
Figure 3. Aftermarket airbox.

Step 3 – Install new intake

Now that the intake is assembled and the old intake is removed, this one can be installed.

  • Position the new air intake's upper box onto the old box.
  • Secure the clips at the edges.
  • Insert cone filter and secure with worm clamp using screwdriver.
  • Reinstall the factory tube to the throttle body.
  • Reconnect the crank case hose to the side port on the new intake.
  • Figure 4. Upper airbox installed.
  • Figure 5. Air filter installed.

Featured Video: How to Install AirAid Cold Air Intake

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