For automotive enthusiasts and daily drivers alike, the quest for more power and a more responsive throttle is a constant pursuit. One of the most effective and popular first modifications is a performance cold air intake system. By replacing the restrictive factory airbox, these systems allow your engine to breathe easier, often resulting in measurable performance gains and a more aggressive engine sound.
Among the top names in the industry, aFe Power has built a reputation for engineering high-quality intake systems that deliver real-world results. Their Momentum GT line is specifically designed to maximize airflow and power. This roundup focuses on the proven power gains and key features of nine different aFe Momentum intake systems and components, helping you find the perfect match for your vehicle and performance goals.
Our Top aFe Momentum Intake System Picks
- aFe Power Momentum GT Cold Air Intake for Jeep Grand Cherokee
- aFe POWER Momentum GT Cold Air Intake System #50-70100R
- aFe Power Momentum GT Intake for GM Silverado/Sierra 1500
- aFe POWER Momentum GT Intake w/Pro DRY S Filter #51-72203
- aFe POWER Momentum Intake Replacement Air Filter
- NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger and Maintainer
- aFe POWER Momentum GT Intake w/Pro DRY S Filter #51-76205-1
- aFe Momentum GT Pro 5R Cold Air Intake System
- aFe Momentum GT Pro Dry S Air Intake System (51-74112)
aFe Power Momentum GT Cold Air Intake for Jeep Grand Cherokee
This aFe Momentum GT system is engineered specifically for the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 with the 5.7L HEMI V8. It is designed to produce significant power increases, with dyno-proven gains of up to 16 horsepower and 24 lb.-ft. of torque. This direct bolt-on kit simplifies the installation process, requiring no cutting or drilling of your factory components.
The system features a high-flow Pro 5R filter, which uses a five-layer, oiled cotton gauze media. This construction is progressively finer, allowing for maximum airflow while providing excellent filtration. The washable and reusable design also makes it a cost-effective long-term solution for performance enthusiasts.
aFe POWER Momentum GT Cold Air Intake System #50-70100R
The aFe Power Momentum GT #50-70100R utilizes a sealed intake design to draw in cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay. This engineering approach results in dyno-proven performance gains and a noticeable improvement in throttle response across the power band. The system is built for those seeking a reliable power upgrade.
A large sight window is integrated into the housing, allowing for quick visual inspections of the filter condition without needing to disassemble the unit. At the heart of this system is a massive air filter featuring the Pro 5R oiled cotton media, which is engineered to support maximum air flow for generating power.
aFe Power Momentum GT Intake for GM Silverado/Sierra 1500
Designed for GM trucks, this intake system is reported to outflow the factory intake by up to 35%, which translates to real power gains. For the Silverado and Sierra 1500 models, this means an increase of up to 12 max horsepower and 15 lb.-ft. of torque. The improved airflow supports better engine efficiency and performance.
It includes the same high-performance, 5-layer oiled and washable cotton gauze filter media found in other Momentum GT systems. The one-piece sealed housing is smooth to reduce air turbulence and includes an auxiliary air scoop to feed more cool air, along with a built-in sight window for convenience.
aFe POWER Momentum GT Intake w/Pro DRY S Filter #51-72203
This Momentum GT system offers the same sealed intake benefits for increased airflow and dyno-proven performance as other models, but it features the Pro DRY S filter media. This is an excellent option for users who prefer a dry filter that requires no oiling during cleaning, offering maximum convenience.
The large sight window makes it simple to check the filter’s status at a glance. The massive air filter with the dry synthetic media provides excellent filtration and high airflow, making it a practical choice for daily drivers and performance applications alike.
aFe POWER Momentum Intake Replacement Air Filter
This is a replacement air filter designed for use with aFe Momentum intake systems. It features a progressive 3-layer dry synthetic material, which provides high airflow and filtration without the need for messy oils. This makes maintenance and cleaning significantly easier.
The filter is constructed with a durable 360-degree polyurethane frame that ensures a solid seal within the intake system. aFe Power recommends this filter for street and light off-road use, making it a versatile component for various driving conditions.
NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger and Maintainer
The NOCO GENIUS1 is a compact yet powerful all-in-one battery solution, functioning as a charger, maintainer, and trickle charger. It is engineered to work with a wide range of 6V and 12V batteries, including lead-acid and lithium-ion types, making it suitable for cars, motorcycles, boats, and more.
A key feature is its precision charging capability, which uses an integrated thermal sensor to adjust the charge based on the ambient temperature. This prevents overcharging in hot weather and undercharging in cold weather, ensuring your battery is maintained optimally for maximum performance and lifespan.
aFe POWER Momentum GT Intake w/Pro DRY S Filter #51-76205-1
This Momentum GT system shares the core performance characteristics of the line, with a sealed intake for increased airflow and proven gains on the dyno. Users can expect improved throttle response and a power increase from the more efficient design.
It is equipped with the Pro DRY S dry synthetic media filter, emphasizing convenience for the user. The inclusion of a large sight window allows for easy monitoring of the filter element, ensuring it can be serviced when needed.
aFe Momentum GT Pro 5R Cold Air Intake System
This system represents the aFe Momentum GT line equipped with the high-performance Pro 5R filter. The Pro 5R media is a multi-layered, oiled cotton gauze designed to provide a balance of high airflow for power and excellent filtration to protect your engine.
Like other models, it is a sealed system that pulls in cooler air from outside the engine compartment, which is key to achieving dyno-proven horsepower and torque gains. This is a direct-fit upgrade for a specific vehicle application, ensuring a straightforward installation process.
aFe Momentum GT Pro Dry S Air Intake System (51-74112)
This specific aFe Momentum GT intake system utilizes the Pro Dry S filter media. The dry synthetic material is ideal for those who want a maintenance-friendly option, as it can be cleaned and reinstalled without the application of special filter oils.
The system is engineered to increase airflow over the stock airbox, resulting in improved engine performance and throttle response. It is designed as a complete bolt-on kit for a specific vehicle, maintaining the sealed housing design that is central to the Momentum GT’s performance benefits.
What to Look For in an aFe Momentum Intake System for Power Gains
When I started looking at the aFe Momentum intake system, I knew I wanted more power, but I quickly learned that not all systems are created equal. My goal was to find the one that would give me the best performance for my money, and that meant looking beyond just the advertised horsepower numbers. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I focused on during my search.
First, I had to make sure the system was a perfect match for my specific vehicle. aFe makes Momentum GT and Momentum HD systems for a huge range of trucks and SUVs. Getting the right model is crucial because a poorly fitting intake can cause engine issues and throw check engine lights, which is the last thing you want after spending your hard-earned cash. I spent a lot of time on their website using their vehicle selector tool to confirm compatibility. Next, I considered the construction. The Momentum line uses a massive, fully-enclosed box made from roto-molded polyethylene. This isn’t just about looking tough; it’s about functionality. That sealed box is key to blocking out hot engine bay air, ensuring the engine only gulps down the cool, dense air it needs to make power. I also looked closely at the filter itself. The 5-layer Pro Dry S filter was a big selling point for me. It doesn’t require any messy oils, which means no risk of contaminating my mass airflow sensor, and it’s washable and reusable. This translates to long-term savings and consistent performance.
Finally, I weighed the real-world benefits against the cost. While the peak power gains are impressive on paper—sometimes over 30 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque depending on the application—I was more interested in the feel. Reviews, including my own experience, consistently mention a sharper throttle response and a more aggressive engine sound under acceleration. It’s not just about a higher number on a dyno sheet; it’s about how the truck drives every single day. The combination of a sealed airbox, high-flow filter, and smooth intake tubing works together to reduce intake restriction, and you can genuinely feel the difference, especially when towing or merging onto the highway. For anyone doing a 9 review of the best aFe Momentum intake system’s power gains, focusing on these practical aspects—fitment, construction, filter type, and drivability improvements—will lead you to the right choice for a reliable and noticeable power upgrade.
FAQ
Is the aFe Momentum intake system really worth the money?
From my perspective, yes, but it depends on your goals. If you’re looking for a simple bolt-on modification that provides a noticeable increase in throttle response, a more aggressive engine sound, and proven power gains, then it’s a solid investment. The power increase isn’t going to double your horsepower, but the combination of improved drivability and the proven performance makes it a worthwhile upgrade for many truck and SUV owners.
Will installing an aFe Momentum void my vehicle’s warranty?
This is a very common concern. Generally, no, a bolt-on intake alone should not void your entire vehicle warranty. In the United States, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers. This means the dealer would need to prove that the intake system directly caused a specific failure to deny a warranty claim. However, it’s always the smartest move to keep your stock airbox. If you need to take your vehicle in for warranty work related to the engine, you can simply reinstall the original intake to avoid any potential disputes.
How difficult is the installation process?
I found the installation to be very straightforward. Most kits are designed as direct replacements for the factory airbox. You typically only need basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers. The instructions provided are clear, and there are numerous video tutorials online for virtually every vehicle application. For a typical DIYer, the job should take about 60 to 90 minutes. It’s a very satisfying project to do yourself.
Do I need a tune after installing the intake?
For most modern vehicles, you do not need an engine tune to run an aFe Momentum intake. The engine’s computer (ECU) is designed to adapt to minor changes in airflow. You will get the advertised power gains and improved throttle response without a tune. However, if you want to maximize the performance potential, pairing the intake with a custom tune will yield even greater results. But for a simple, effective bolt-on, it works great right out of the box.
How often do I need to clean the air filter?
aFe recommends cleaning the Pro Dry S filter every 15,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you drive in exceptionally dusty or dirty environments, you should check and potentially clean it more frequently, perhaps every 5,000-10,000 miles. The cleaning process is simple: you tap it gently to remove loose debris, then wash it with water and let it air dry completely before reinstalling. There are no oils to mess with, which I really appreciate.
What kind of real-world power gains can I actually expect?
The advertised gains are based on dyno tests, and your results will vary based on your specific vehicle, altitude, and other mods. However, the consensus from my research and experience is that the gains are real and perceptible. You’re likely looking at increases in the range of 10 to over 30 horsepower and a significant bump in torque. More than the peak numbers, the improvement in how the engine feels is the real benefit. The throttle feels less sluggish, and the truck pulls harder, especially in the mid-range, which is exactly where you need it for daily driving and towing. This performance aspect is a key reason people include it in a 9 review of the best aFe Momentum intake system’s power gains.