round open air filter vs cold air

[1988GMC]

I have a 305 in my 1988 k1500 with a 383 being built and I currently have a Edelbrock open 12" air filter on top of the throttle body but I'm considering installing a cold air intake. Is it worth it? One reason that I have thought of doing this change is due to off roading and water easily getting into the open filter. My only concern is airflow, will I still get enough air flow for a 400 hp 383 compared to the open filter?

 

[Scrufdog]

as long as it's about 3" size tube, with a large cone filter, you should be fine. Never hurts pulling in cooler air anyway.

 

[1988GMC]

okay thanks good to know and the cooler the air the better

 

[michael hurd]

Solving for airflow at 100% volumetric efficiency at 6000 rpm=

383x6000/3456= 664.93 cfm

Assuming 87% VE that requirement drops to 578.489 cfm.

 

[michael hurd]

Looking up a quick online calculator shows that a straight section of 3" pipe will flow 747 cfm, however that assumes a very low friction pipe. Convoluted sections will flow less as well as turns will reduce the actual flow rate. It is safe to say that a 3" intake will be sufficient.
As long as your filter flows close to 700 cfm you should be quite fine.