Rather than to spend 180 dollars on an alta intake that only consists of a heat shield and filter. I am going to make my own heat shield from aluminum and improve on the design of the alta heat shield idea. I will also be using a green filter as well. Has anyone gone this route and made there own similar to the alta design? I love working with my hands and making things. So this is something that i will enjoy doing. I do not have my car yet, but when i get it, its one of the first projects ill be working on. What are your thoughts? By the way ill take pics of all of it when it happens.

Garrett

 

Be careful. That's a slippery slope. From memory, that's how Dan Pilo got started in the MINI aftermarket business. Now, he does it for a living.

 

I replace my Steel Alta box with one I made out of woven carbon fiber.

Pretty easy to do, pretty cheap and easy to learn.
I got the supplies from Tap Plastics for under $30.

 

DO you have any pictures of this all done up?


Garrett

 

If you are going to embark down this path consider making a lid to truely ensure that hot air stays out.

 

Please show some if of your woven carbon fiber box.

 

Sounds cool huh. It actually looks just like the Alta box. Not to impressive as it was my first one and it's kinda yellowed since the install except for when I Armorall it, then it looks pretty cool. Did it just for looks.
Sorry about not posting pics. I'm a lazy MF'er that doesn't feel like learning how to post pics. and I'm mostly on NAM when at work. I'll email pics. to a buddy of mine and have him post them here for you guys to see.


James

 

I made my own out of aluminum that I had at hand. Mine is similar to Dan Pilo's except I used a K&N filter. Here's some pics.







The lower pic was the prototype with the first pic the final version. I was into it for $135 including filter and had enough material left to make 8 more units. I sold 4 of the sheetmetal surrounds with seals for $60 each. Paid for the materials and a little extra

I say "Go For IT!"

 

Sanddan,

That looks good, my idea is similar to yours. SInce i do not have my mini yet, what is the purpose of that piece on the side of the shield? Also what did you use to get the tubing to stay in there? Did you weld it on? If not asking to much, are you able to give me the dimensions of the whole thing? So i know what i am working with?

Thanks,

Garrett

 

What would you pay for this type of intake. I am working on new pricing on all of my products

 

Wow your located in NJ? Great stuff!!! Hmmm not sure what i would pay. it is really hard to say as companies need to make a living as well and also taking into account how much labor/ material it takes to put into those kits. How much of adjustment are you going to make on your products? Does your intake allow you to remove the back plate to allow cold air from the vent by the windshield?

Garrett

 

Garrett, check your PM.

:smile:

 

You can easily remove it to cut holes if you wish.

 

Oh, Also we already use a Green Filter Element!

 

I am seriously considering a stealth intake. Why not cut the back out of the stock lower box, cut out the firewall behind the hole, use weatherstripping to join & insulate the openings & run a replacement panel filter? It won't be visible at all & I can't see why it would be any less effective than other intakes. Thoughts?