Bought Out A/O Engineering's Leftover Stock

[Blue Flame Restorations]

I have been working on the A/O Forced Air license inlet and diffuser. I called them last week and spoke to them about copyright concerns. The owner told me that they were no longer offering the assembly but had a few pieces in stock.

I purchased the leftover stock. Air couplers, duct work, difusers, etc. There were no complete units. I will have to manufacture the air filter lid.

I will be a source for the Forced Air induction "components" for our cars until the stock runs out.

The new BFR Air-Blast kit will provide similar characteristics to the A/O kit but will not be a 100% copy of their discontinued system. I believe that my system will offer slightly improved air induction.

The mold for the license filler inlet is done now. I will get started on the air filter cover.

Complete units will be $299 each. Once everything is lined up, I'll do a group buy.

Brett

[GOLDCYLON]

I have been working on the A/O Forced Air license inlet and diffuser. I called them last week and spoke to them about copyright concerns. The owner told me that they were no longer offering the assembly but had a few pieces in stock.

I purchased the leftover stock. Air couplers, duct work, difusers, etc. There were no complete units. I will have to manufacture the air filter lid.

I will be a source for the Forced Air induction compenents and assemblies for our cars. The mold for the license filler inlet is done now. I will get started on the air filter cover.

Complete units will be $299 each. Once everything is lined up, I'll do a group buy.

Brett


Cool

[PhillipsLT5]

NICE!

[cvette98pacecar]

Brett, Are you going to offer a kit for the Widebody's? Basically a fresh air inlet that is being supplied by the radiator opening?

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Brett, Are you going to offer a kit for the Widebody's? Basically a fresh air inlet that is being supplied by the radiator opening?


You design it and I'll build it. LOL

[RICKYRJ1]

Cool, if you dont have someone local to you, you might want to reach out to George Braml(LT5-1935) for fabing up the metal lids. As well know he does fantastic work. :fahne:

[Scrrem]

Hey Brett,
From what I have been able to read on these things, they will not work on a 90 due to the way the front frame member is configured?
Rich

[88GTAChuck]

Sounds great Brett, count me in for a kit.
~Charles

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Hey Brett,
From what I have been able to read on these things, they will not work on a 90 due to the way the front frame member is configured?
Rich


I will investigate further. The blk 90 project car that I had, had the hole cut for one of these units. The front structure is the same from 90-96, actually the same from 84-96. Shouldn't be an issue.

I will investigate though. I have a 90 ZR-1 body tub in storage that I can do a trial run on.


Thanks for the heads up!

[GOLDCYLON]

Hey Brett,
From what I have been able to read on these things, they will not work on a 90 due to the way the front frame member is configured?
Rich


Not true there is a cutting procedure and of course the front plate is different

Brett look at those directions I sent ya the MY 90 is discussed

[Pete]

Brett, all i need is the front cover piece.

Pete

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Not true there is a cutting procedure and of course the front plate is different

Brett look at those directions I sent ya the MY 90 is discussed


Yes, I still have the data you sent. The 90 is mentioned. Since I have a 90 body tub, I will make sure eveything is a direct fit, including all instructions for installation for each year, 84-96. This is not just for ZR-1's.

I will R&D the ducting and clamp system and most likely use my own attaching system and industrial grade ducting.

My BFR Air-Blast kit will provide similar air induction characteristics but will not be a 100% copy of A/O's discontinued kit.

[RICKYRJ1]

Not true there is a cutting procedure and of course the front plate is different

Brett look at those directions I sent ya the MY 90 is discussed


I aggree, cutting has to be done.

[WVZR-1]

I may actually have one of their air-cleaner lids. Do you need one to duplicate or are you doing your own?

[Blue Flame Restorations]

I may actually have one of their air-cleaner lids. Do you need one to duplicate or are you doing your own?

I'd love to have one for just R&D for a few weeks.

[VetteVet]

Brett, Are you going to offer a kit for the Widebody's? Basically a fresh air inlet that is being supplied by the radiator opening?

What did AO call the kit that Robert is referring to? I have the inverted housing, but am lacking the filter cover with the scoop that picks up air from the radiator opening. Does anyone have an extra one of those pieces?

Thanks,
Jep

[Blue Flame Restorations]

What did AO call the kit that Robert is referring to? I have the inverted housing, but am lacking the filter cover with the scoop that picks up air from the radiator opening. Does anyone have an extra one of those pieces?

Thanks,
Jep

I think I've seen them but not sure who made them.

[VetteVet]

I think I've seen them but not sure who made them.

Brett,

I could have sworn that my inverted housing had A.O. Engineering molded into it. I just went out to the garage to check and found out that I was mistaken. It has:

Automotive Performance International Inc
Seattle, WA

I'll be damned! I don't know why I thought it was an A.O. piece.

Jep

[sammy]

I think I've seen them but not sure who made them.i have 2 of the inverted setups (the one where you have to cut the radiator cover .i could send you one to use for mock up if you like .would like it back when your done . but more than happy to send it to you .please pm me your mailing add if you would like to use it .

[VetteVet]

i have 2 of the inverted setups (the one where you have to cut the radiator cover .i could send you one to use for mock up if you like .would like it back when your done . but more than happy to send it to you .please pm me your mailing add if you would like to use it .

Sammy,

PM sent.

Thanks,
Jep

[Blue Flame Restorations]

i have 2 of the inverted setups (the one where you have to cut the radiator cover .i could send you one to use for mock up if you like .would like it back when your done . but more than happy to send it to you .please pm me your mailing add if you would like to use it .


Hi Sammy. That's a great offer. I may just do that once I get this project completed. :cheers:

[GOLDCYLON]

Brett,

I could have sworn that my inverted housing had A.O. Engineering molded into it. I just went out to the garage to check and found out that I was mistaken. It has:

Automotive Performance International Inc
Seattle, WA

I'll be damned! I don't know why I thought it was an A.O. piece.

Jep

Dont sweat it Jep a lot of those companies have come and gone by now. I knew what you were talking about as well but sure did not know who made it. IS API even in business any more ?


Well I just called

API INC 7609 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98136‎
(206) 992-4125

Somebody answered the phone.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Dont sweat it Jep a lot of those companies have come and gone by now. I knew what you were talking about as well but sure did not know who made it. IS API even in business any more ?


Well I just called

API INC 7609 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98136‎
(206) 992-4125

Somebody answered the phone.


If API is still offering the unit, I'm out. I'll stay focued on the new Air Blast.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

UPDATE 02/25/13

After much contemplation, I decided to modify the AO design specs for the air inlet to receive what I feel is a better air flow.

A pattern will be made and then it's off to the aluminum foundry for mold pouring. The next step will be vacuum forming the part.

A new air filter lid is being designed as well. About the only design aspect similar to the original AO unit will be the ducting hose diameter.

[efnfast]

UPDATE 02/25/13

After much contemplation, I decided to modify the AO design specs for the air inlet to receive what I feel is a better air flow.

A pattern will be made and then it's off to the aluminum foundry for mold pouring. The next step will be vacuum forming the part.

A new air filter lid is being designed as well. About the only design aspect similar to the original AO unit will be the ducting hose diameter.

Really???? Way cool.
I gotta' get the wife back to work so I can buy more toys.:fahne:

[VetteVet]

Dont sweat it Jep a lot of those companies have come and gone by now. I knew what you were talking about as well but sure did not know who made it. IS API even in business any more ?


Well I just called

API INC 7609 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98136‎
(206) 992-4125

Somebody answered the phone.

Daryll,

Thanks for the contact info. I just got in touch with Dan at API and he said he thinks that he has a couple of air filter lids(with scoops) around for these units. He also said that he may also have some of the housings, as well. He is going to supply me with installation instructions and a template for cutting the radiator shroud. Once he digs up what he has left and calls me back, I will get pricing info on any remaining units in case anyone is interested.

Jep

[ScottZ95ZR1]

Good news Brett!

[sammy]

Hi Sammy. That's a great offer. I may just do that once I get this project completed. :cheers:just let me know when you want one and i will send it out :)

[Blue Flame Restorations]

just let me know when you want one and i will send it out :)

Looks like I'll be ok. I just bought a complete unit off of ebay last night. I have all the pieces I need now. I really appreciate the offer, Sammy.

I'm making the first hand laid license pocket air inlet today. The production units will be vacuum formed though.

[mgg]

I am really looking forward to the completed project. Please keep us posted.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

I am extremely excited to bring this item to the marketplace.

The new "Air Blast Forced Air" product covers a wide range of Corvettes, 84-96. Manufactured correctly and priced competitively, this can be a win/win for all of us needing more forced air for our engines to breath and perform.

As it is with bringing to market any new product, the processes must run their course. Pattern making, model making and then prototyping takes a lot of effort and time to do it right. Not to mention money $$$$.

I'll keep everyone posted as the project progresses.
:cheers:

[GOLDCYLON]

Daryll,

Thanks for the contact info. I just got in touch with Dan at API and he said he thinks that he has a couple of air filter lids(with scoops) around for these units. He also said that he may also have some of the housings, as well. He is going to supply me with installation instructions and a template for cutting the radiator shroud. Once he digs up what he has left and calls me back, I will get pricing info on any remaining units in case anyone is interested.

Jep

cool:cheers:

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Probably a good time for an alternate thread?

[GOLDCYLON]

Probably a good time for an alternate thread?


If Jep wants to get the info out I will suggested that he starts a seperate thread. I will send him a PM. GC

[Blue Flame Restorations]

That would probably get better results. I wouldn't mind getting one for myself....

[VetteVet]

Probably a good time for an alternate thread?

Brett,

Sorry about that. I didn't mean to hijack your thread. Just got carried away. I beg your forgiveness, kind sir!!

Jep

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Brett,

Sorry about that. I didn't mean to hijack your thread. Just got carried away. I beg your forgiveness, kind sir!!

Jep


Nooooooo!!!!!! That's not what I meant!!!!! I'm trying to wrap my head around this open air box thingy.......Do they still make it? Are they planning on continuing to make it? Could a ram air be connected to it and still give more air?:cheers:

[VetteVet]

Nooooooo!!!!!! That's not what I meant!!!!! I'm trying to wrap my head around this open air box thingy.......Do they still make it? Are they planning on continuing to make it? Could a ram air be connected to it and still give more air?:cheers:

Brett,

I replied to your PM, but here is the gist for everyone else:

What I have is a housing that is inverted. It mounts to the radiator shroud and attaches to the air duct in the same manner as stock. The kit included an air filter lid which had a scoop incorporated into it, a template to cut the stock radiator shroud and a seal to seal the housing to the shroud. The air filter and lid/scoop hangs down into the air stream feeding the radiator and forces the air into the housing. It sounds like exactly what Robert was inquiring about in post #4 of this thread.

Here are some pics:

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTEtMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNC5qcGc__zpsa680f7 92.jpg

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTItMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNS5qcGc__zpsb321ab 15.jpg

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTMtMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNS5qcGc__zpsd82911 6e.jpg

Hope this helps.

When I spoke to Dan at API, he was very helpful, but stated that the unit is no longer in production. He is digging up whatever pieces that he still has left and will contact me soon. He is also willing to provide me with the installation instructions and template for cutting the radiator shroud.

Pics of an L-98 version of this system can be found at http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-parts-for-sale-wanted/3017054-f-s-l98-cold-air-intake-cai.html


Jep

[Blue Flame Restorations]

great pics Jep. Thanks for posting. That's do-able for sure.

[-=Jeff=-]

I have the same piece jep has, but I also don't have the specific lid.. that would be nice to get

[Blue Flame Restorations]

The inverted box looks like a no brainer. With some fresh air ductwork, it would be a cool piece. If this was combined with the BIG MOUTH option, you'd have all the air you'd need, most likely.

A lower air dam with the cooling ducts could also be used instead of routing the ductwork to the brakes. Route to the air cleaner.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Brett,

I replied to your PM, but here is the gist for everyone else:

What I have is a housing that is inverted. It mounts to the radiator shroud and attaches to the air duct in the same manner as stock. The kit included an air filter lid which had a scoop incorporated into it, a template to cut the stock radiator shroud and a seal to seal the housing to the shroud. The air filter and lid/scoop hangs down into the air stream feeding the radiator and forces the air into the housing. It sounds like exactly what Robert was inquiring about in post #4 of this thread.

Here are some pics:

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTEtMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNC5qcGc__zpsa680f7 92.jpg

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTItMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNS5qcGc__zpsb321ab 15.jpg

http://i827.photobucket.com/albums/zz195/vettevet/_utf-8_B_SU1HMDAxMTMtMjAxMzAyMjYtMjAxNS5qcGc__zpsd82911 6e.jpg

Hope this helps.

When I spoke to Dan at API, he was very helpful, but stated that the unit is no longer in production. He is digging up whatever pieces that he still has left and will contact me soon. He is also willing to provide me with the installation instructions and template for cutting the radiator shroud.

Pics of an L-98 version of this system can be found at http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-parts-for-sale-wanted/3017054-f-s-l98-cold-air-intake-cai.html


Jep


Jep, does this unit use an air filter?

[-=Jeff=-]

Jep, does this unit use an air filter?

Yes Stock one ( well stock replacement :))

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Yes Stock one ( well stock replacement :))

Thanks, Jeff

[VetteVet]

Jep, does this unit use an air filter?

Sorry, Brett. I missed that question. Jeff's got it covered, though.

I haven't heard back from Dan @ API yet. I'll give it a few more days and then give him another call.
Jep

[Blue Flame Restorations]

I have an intriguing idea for forcing COOL air to the air cleaner assembly. I will try it on my 91 before BG. If I can bring it installed, it may generate some good dialogue.

[xlr8nflorida]

I have an intriguing idea for forcing COOL air to the air cleaner assembly. I will try it on my 91 before BG. If I can bring it installed, it may generate some good dialogue.


I had this kit probably 10 years ago. I wound up selling it because I realized I was going have to cut the bumper support which I didn't want to do. Also, I don't think there is much to be gained HP wise as many studies have shown it on the forum. It definitely looks cool though.

I wound up selling just the front license plate section for like $150. Another guy picked up the guts.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Received all of the A/O remaining stock today. Wasn't much but it's all new.

Airbox Covers
Hoses/Clamps
Diffsuers for the air inlet (I have a mold for these now as well)

The front inlet housings will be vacuum formed. I tried to make a fiberglass mold but there just isn't enough draft on the part for it to give acceptable parts.

It will be a few months before the vacuum formed tooling is completed. Probably mid Summer.

FYI, if anyone is interested?

[Fully Vetted]

Most definitely interested...

[9T1 Red ZR1]

Hello,
Any new developments with this?

Thanks,
Bill

[Bornwild]

Happy Hollidays to everyone! Ha there is a A/O System for sale new in original box from a/o engineering forced air system on EBay listing number 321931358561! Merry Christmas everyone!:icon_sant:icon_sant

[tf95ZR1]

Happy Hollidays to everyone! Ha there is a A/O System for sale new in original box from a/o engineering forced air system on EBay listing number 321931358561! Merry Christmas everyone!:icon_sant:icon_sant

"This part is not compatible with Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 Hatchback 2-Door 5.7L 350Cu. In. V8 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspirated."

[5ABI VT]

Happy Hollidays to everyone! Ha there is a A/O System for sale new in original box from a/o engineering forced air system on EBay listing number 321931358561! Merry Christmas everyone!:icon_sant:icon_sant

wow did the sale go through? Ill do $300 if not...:cheers: