I've been considering a new air intake and exhaust for my truck. I've heard good things about the K&N air intake kit, but does it really provide much advantage? It looks like the air is being drawn from inside the engine compartment and would be hot. I haven't really had a chance to look at the way my air intake is currently, but everything else I've had has had the filter box ducted to an intake right behind the headlights, is that not the case on the Frontier? Also, I drive alot of unimproved roads/dirt tracks, is the filter on the K&N intake exposed to mud and splashing water? I don't plan on taking the truck through any deep water, but I have had occasions when I've managed to splash considerable mud and water all the way to the underside of the hood. The only exhaust I've really seen has been the Catback. Any information is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Russ

get the volant. its the best option if you plan on getting the truck dirty

Here's another vote for Volant. Thats what I run, and I love it. Really lets that VQ-40 breathe.

I'm really digging the Volant since I've started looking. I finally got a chance to look under the hood more closely and the install doesn't look like it should be too difficult, but anyone got any tips or "oops" moments I should try to avoid on the installation? Also, anyone ever use one with a snorkel, just in case I should feel a little froggy someday and suddenly find funds that I just have to get rid of.
Thanks,
Russ

IIRC, pretty sure you have to have the stock box to do the snorkel install, so keep it. As for the Volant install, it takes most people an hour or so. not too hard. It took my dumb ass forever, because the instructions in the box are really really shitty, and i couldn't figure out i was missing a piece.