Why the Volant 3.5-Inch Cold Air Intake Is a Smart Upgrade for Your Silverado 2.7 Turbo

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (L3B) is already a capable workhorse, delivering strong low-end torque and respectable fuel economy. But like any modern turbo engine, its biggest restriction isn’t the turbocharger itself—it’s the factory air intake system. The stock box and intake tube are designed for noise suppression and cost efficiency, not maximum airflow. By replacing that restrictive assembly with a Volant 3.5-inch cold air intake, many owners report real-world gains of 15 horsepower or more, along with quicker throttle response and a more aggressive intake tone.

This upgrade is especially beneficial for the 2.7 Turbo because the engine relies heavily on forced induction. A cold air intake reduces inlet air temperature and improves flow into the turbo compressor, allowing the engine to combust fuel more efficiently. The result is a noticeable seat-of-the-pants improvement, particularly when merging onto highways or towing moderate loads.

Understanding the Volant Difference

Volant has built a reputation for producing high-quality, dyno-verified intake systems that use a sealed airbox design and premium filter media. Unlike open-element “hot air” intakes that draw in underhood heat, the Volant system for the Silverado 2.7 Turbo features an enclosed housing that pulls cool air from the front of the vehicle. Their signature washable, reusable filter uses an oiled cotton gauze media that filters well while still flowing high volumes of air. The powder-coated aluminum intake tube is smooth and mandrel-bent, minimizing turbulence and further improving flow.

Tools and Materials: What You’ll Need Before Starting

Before you pop the hood, gather everything in one place. The Volant kit comes with all necessary hardware, but you’ll also need a few standard hand tools. Make sure you have:

  • Volant 3.5-inch cold air intake kit (part number 35310 or specific fitment for 2.7L Silverado)
  • 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm sockets with a ratchet and extension
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Torque wrench (for critical fasteners)
  • Shop towels or rags to clean any dirt or debris from the intake area
  • Safety glasses
  • Masking tape or a plastic bag to cover the throttle body opening while you work

The kit itself includes the new airbox, intake tube, filter, clamps, mounting brackets, and a detailed instruction sheet. We recommend reading through the instructions at least once before diving in.

Step-by-Step Installation: Detailed Guide

You can complete this install in about 60–90 minutes. Work slowly to avoid damaging any clips, hoses, or sensors.

1. Prepare the Vehicle and Disconnect the Battery

Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and let the engine cool completely. Open the hood and locate the negative battery terminal. Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the bolt and slide the terminal off the battery post. Tuck it aside so it cannot accidentally touch the terminal. This step is essential to prevent any short circuits while you work near sensors and the MAF (mass airflow sensor).

2. Remove the Factory Intake System

The stock intake on the Silverado 2.7 Turbo consists of the air filter housing, a resonator, and a plastic intake tube connecting to the turbo inlet. To remove it:

  • Use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the clamp on the flexible duct that runs from the front grille to the airbox.
  • Unplug the MAF sensor connector by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Be careful not to bend the pins.
  • Unbolt the airbox from the fender well using a 10mm socket. There are usually two or three bolts.
  • Pull the airbox assembly upward to unseat it from the mounting grommets.
  • Disconnect the intake tube from the turbo inlet by loosening the worm-gear clamp at the turbo side and wiggling the tube free.
  • Note how the factory breather hose and any auxiliary vacuum lines attach—you’ll need to reconnect those to the new intake.

Set the factory parts aside; you can keep them if you ever need to return the truck to stock. Use a shop towel to cover the turbo inlet opening so no debris falls in while you work.

3. Install the Volant Airbox and Heat Shield

The Volant system uses a two-piece black plastic housing that seals tightly around the filter. First, mount the lower portion of the airbox using the provided brackets and bolts. The system is designed to bolt into existing factory mounting points, so no drilling is required. Fit the box into place, thread the bolts, and snug them down—don’t overtighten because the plastic can crack.

Next, install the Volant 3.5-inch filter onto the aluminum intake tube using the included clamp. The filter slides over the smooth metal end; tighten the clamp just enough to hold it firmly. Then lower the filter and tube assembly into the lower airbox, aligning the tube with the opening in the airbox lid.

Finally, place the top cover of the airbox over the filter, ensuring the rubber seal sits evenly all around. Secure the clips or screws that come with the kit.

4. Route and Connect the Intake Tube

The aluminum intake tube connects from the airbox to the turbo inlet. Slide the silicone coupler supplied in the kit onto the turbo inlet, then attach the tube into the coupler. Use the worm-gear clamps to secure both ends. Tighten them to the torque specified in the instructions (usually around 4–6 ft-lb). Be careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.

At this stage, reconnect any breather hoses or PCV lines. The Volant kit typically has a dedicated port for the crankcase vent hose. If your truck has an engine cover that interfered with the new tube, you may need to remove or modify it. Most owners leave the cover off for a cleaner look and easier access.

5. Reconnect Sensors and Check Clearances

Plug the MAF sensor (if your kit includes one) back into the harness. Some Volant kits for the 2.7 Turbo retain the factory MAF housing; others provide a new MAF mounting section on the intake tube. Double-check that the MAF is seated correctly and the connector clicks. Also make sure the intake tube is not contacting any moving parts like the serpentine belt or fan shroud.

Now is the time to verify all clamps are tight, all hoses are secured, and the airbox lid is fully locked. Give the entire assembly a gentle shake to confirm it’s solid.

6. Reconnect the Battery and Perform an Idle Learn

Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten the bolt. Start the engine. It may idle higher than normal for the first minute as the ECM recalibrates to the increased airflow. Let it idle for two to three minutes, then rev the engine gently to 2000 RPM a few times. Check for any whistles, leaks, or loose connections.

If the engine runs smoothly, take the truck for a short test drive. You should notice a sharper throttle tip-in and a deeper exhaust note. Let the truck drive under varying loads for about 10 miles so the computer can fully adapt.

Realistic Horsepower Gains and Performance Data

Volant claims a gain of 15+ horsepower at the wheels on a stock Silverado 2.7 Turbo. Independent dyno tests on the 2.7L L3B show that a cold air intake alone can add 8–12 whp on a conservative tune, with even more when combined with a cat-back exhaust. The largest improvement often comes in the mid-range (2500–4000 RPM), which is exactly where you need it for daily driving and towing.

Keep in mind that gains will vary based on outside air temperature, altitude, and the condition of your engine. The real value of this upgrade is not just peak power—it’s the consistent delivery of cooler, denser air in all conditions.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Check Engine Light (CEL) After Installation

A CEL almost always indicates a loose MAF sensor connection or a vacuum leak. Recheck the MAF wiring and ensure the intake tube is properly seated on the turbo inlet. If the light persists, use an OBD-II scanner to read the code. Most aftermarket intakes will not trigger a code unless there’s a physical leak or a sensor that wasn’t fully plugged in.

Whistling or Hissing Sounds

Some intake sound is normal—the Volant system adds a pronounced induction roar under hard throttle. But if you hear a constant whistle at idle, suspect a leak at the coupler or a loose clamp. Tighten all connections and make sure the airbox lid is sealed.

Idle Fluctuations

If the engine hunts at idle after installation, the MAF sensor may be dirty or the tube may have a leak. Clean the MAF with approved electronics cleaner and reinstall. It can also take several drive cycles for the ECU to fully adapt; drive the truck normally for a day before worrying.

Maintaining Your Volant Cold Air Intake

To keep your intake performing at its best, follow this simple maintenance schedule:

  • Inspect the filter every 5,000 miles for dirt accumulation. The Volant cotton filter can be cleaned with the recharging kit every 30,000 miles under normal driving, or more often if you drive on dusty roads.
  • Check all clamps and connections at each oil change. Vibration can loosen them over time.
  • Wipe down the inside of the airbox when cleaning the filter to prevent dirt from cycling back into the intake.
  • Do not over-oil the filter after cleaning; excess oil can contaminate the MAF sensor. Let the filter dry fully and apply oil sparingly.

External Resources and Further Reading

Final Verdict: Is the 15+ HP Gain Real?

Yes—for most Silverado 2.7 Turbo owners, a Volant 3.5-inch cold air intake delivers a genuine, noticeable increase in horsepower and driveability. The installation is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills, and the materials are durable enough for daily use. It’s one of the best first modifications you can make to unlock the engine’s potential without voiding your powertrain warranty (though always check with your dealer). With proper maintenance, the system will provide years of service and a sound that reminds you your truck is no longer stock.