Overview
The AEM 21-8001DC is a Brute Force cold air intake system with an inlet tube, an open filter housing and a dry filter. It fits 1988-1995 Chevrolet and GMC full-size trucks and SUVs, including the C/K 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups, Blazer, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon and Jimmy.
Each kit comes with complete hardware, a steel heat shield and reinforced brackets. The intake carries a lifetime guarantee.
Key features
- Cold air intake system type
- Inlet tube included
- Open filter housing
- Dry filter
- Steel heat shield
- Reinforced brackets and complete hardware in every kit, per the manufacturer
- Lifetime guarantee
- Direct fit
Breathing and upkeep
An intake changes the air path from outside the truck to the throttle body, so the parts that touch it matter as much as the filter. Keep the inlet tube and housing sealed, check that the clamps stay tight, and make sure no hoses rub against the heat shield or engine parts. Dust that enters past a loose connection can wear the engine, so the seals deserve attention.
Heat matters with any cold air setup. A steel heat shield helps keep hot engine air from being pulled in, which is one reason to keep it in place. Check the shield bolts and brackets during oil changes. If the truck is driven through deep water, make sure the filter housing stays dry and the intake sits as high as the layout allows.
Specifications
| Brand | AEM |
|---|---|
| Part number | 21-8001DC |
| Catalog part number | AEM21-8001DC |
| Product type | Cold air intake system |
| Series | Brute Force |
| Intake system type | Cold air |
| Inlet tube | Included |
| Filter housing type | Open |
| Filter type | Dry |
| Heat shield | Steel |
| Guarantee stated in source | Lifetime guarantee |
| Fit type | Direct fit |
Vehicle fitment
The stored manufacturer fitment list for the AEM 21-8001DC covers 1988-1995 Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs, with model years that vary by model.
Chevrolet entries include the 1992-1994 Blazer, 1988-1995 C1500, C2500, C3500, K1500, K2500 and K3500, the 1992-1995 Suburban 1500 and 2500, the 1995 Tahoe, the 1988 R20 and R30, and the 1989-1991 R3500 and V3500. GMC entries include the 1988-1995 C and K 1500, 2500 and 3500 trucks, the 1992-1995 Suburban, the 1988-1991 Jimmy, the 1988-1991 R3500 and V3500, the 1988-1989 R2500 and the 1992-1995 Yukon. Exact trims are in the Fitment tab.
The list ends at the 1995 model year, so 1996 and later Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs are not included. Model years differ by model, so check each entry. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Follow the included instructions and use the hardware provided. Torque fasteners to the specified values and re-check them after the first miles of driving.
If you are unsure about any step, have the part installed by a qualified technician.
Intake systems connect to the throttle body and air flow sensing components, so take care with sensor connectors and clamps, and confirm that all hoses and clamps are tight. Check local emissions regulations before installing an aftermarket intake.
What’s included
- Intake system with inlet tube
- Dry filter
- Steel heat shield (per the manufacturer)
- Brackets and hardware (per the manufacturer)
Not included: A filter cleaning kit, tuning and other accessories are not included.
