Not sure if the answer to this question is more about opinions than fax's. I have a 2012 Tahoe 5.3 and Santa brought me a K&N Blackhawk intake that has a dry washable filter instead of an oiled one. I have read that unless you replace the stock MAF with a more performance sensor you will not realize the max benefit from this intake. I called K&N and was told that this mod is not required to max out the benefit of the intake.....but replacing the factory sensor with one that provides more air seems logical. I also read that installing a TB spacer with this intake would show an improvement in gas mileage. Does anyone have any experience with this set up?

 

You are correct, its about options. The system will work fine as it is. You could install a TB spacer ($100) and you may notice a slight difference. Depending on you state of residency be sure it meet emissions standards or you could fail the smog test. As for the MAF I went cheap and removed the screen from my stock sensor and polished the feed ramp. Been years and still works fine but could spend another $100+ and buy an aftermarket MAF. Again, your choice!