Slight Issue With K&n Install

njemt65 · February 28, 2009

Hey all...my first post here after reading the tons of information you have made available here...for that I thank you.

I recently installed a series 63 K&N intake into my 09 Silverado CC, 5.3L LT Z71.

The step by step instructions were much improved from what I remember with a similar intall on my 99 Tahoe and 06 Trailblazer SS. However, I did have to order the product as if I was ordering for a 2008 as most websites haven't acknowledged the existence of an 09 yet. I figured that 08 was the same as 09 so there wouldn't be any problems. I was wrong.

On the 09 the mass air flow sensor is one piece attached to the upper stock air box cover!!! Not attached with a hose clamp on either end as I saw in my previous 2 trucks, and not as pictured in the illustrated instruction manual.

I made the game time decision to attack the airbox lid with the dremel to free the MAF sensor. I was a little hesitant to cut it apart because if it didnt fit into the K&N I would be without an intact stock system and a K&N that wouldn't work...meaning no truck!!!

It all turned out well, fit together like a glove, and truck is running well without any codes. Just a heads up to 09 5.3 owners that you will have to cut apart the stock parts to intstall an aftermarket intake!!!

Matt_ · February 28, 2009

Thanks for the heads up.

and welcome to the site from another NJ guy

Stevens03 · February 28, 2009

Post some photo's when you get a chance. Sounds scary to me. If that was me,... it wouldn't have worked, and my wife would be pissed at me.

Steven

BuckFeverZ · February 28, 2009

Ya got more balls than me. I wouldn't fuc with the MAF

njemt65 · March 2, 2009

Trust me...I was thinking of the wife being pissed as she had to drive me to the parts store so I could make the truck drivable again...

I will get some pics when we dig out of the snow here in NJ

I suppose that a MAF from a 2008 could be used in this instance, that way keeping your stock gear intact. I sent an email to K&N to let them know and also to find out what their solution would be. I'm sure cutting the MAF off of the stock air box will not be in their instructions!?