Intake Opinions

[Josh Murray <mincarp1@xxxxxxx>]

I am looking for some insight  as far as air intakes are concerned.
There seems to be much debate as to whether or not the replacement air
filter/intake
that eliminates the factory airbox and replaces it with a K & N conical
filter actually makes a difference.
I have heard some say that the increase in horsepower is immediately
noticable, while others say that the fact that the conical filter draws hot
air from the engine (instead of the cold air that the factory filter draws)
eliminates any gains, if not removing HP's.
I am aware of the cold air baths availble, but that seems like to much
hassle.
Any input is much appreciated.
Josh Murray
90 325is
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Josh,
Replacing the stock filter with an K&N is an improvement only if you do it
the right way. If you are going to run an open K&N (like a flow-tech), then
you will need to build/buy a shield that blocks the engine heat from
entering. It will also help reduce air turbulence. If you want to stop here,
it is ok, but you can take it one more step. You can fabricate a ram-air by
running a vacuum cleaner hose with an attachment from the front of the grill
and route it to the filter...increasing air flow. I have done both of these
to my car and my butt dyno can feel an improvement from just running the
flow-tech. You can buy a CF heat shield from Milos or just use your
imagination and build one (I painted mine Morea Green to match my
car....looks great and wife is impressed). If you would like a pic, let me
know and I will send you one.

TSgt George Boudreau
95 325is
83 323i

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