First-Time C5 Owners Guide

As an owner of 20 Corvettes with my first in 1999 (mostly C5s), I thought it would be helpful to offer some of the tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years, in addition to the fixes for common issues I’ve experienced. I’ll also combine that with resources we have here at CorvSport, as well as curated information from around the Corvette community, in what can hopefully become the go-to place for all things C5.

C5 Tips, Tricks & Fixes

1. Cheap Cold Air Intake.

My favorite trick is converting the stock air intake to a cold air intake for the cost of zip ties. And if you really want to get extravagant, you can spend about $90 and buy the upgraded K&N drop-in filter. This setup from my current 2000 FRC is pictured below. It’s tempting to spend considerably more for a “true CAI” but the risk of hydro-locking your engine is real, especially with the CAI systems that require you to cut the radiator shroud. In 2001 I destroyed the LS1 on my nearly brand new Coupe in a flash flood that caused suction under the shroud.

The process for this cheap conversion is fairly simple. First, disconnect the stock system from the throttle body, pull the pins from the air bridge fasteners, remove the other 3 connectors (MAF, etc), and pull out the system so you can remove the restrictive top from the air intake. At this time you can also pull the nipples off the front of the frame if you desire a cleaner look. Once the top is off, use the zip ties on each side to hold the frame and filter in place and replace the system.