I'm a virgin to all this 'performance' stuff. I read in a thread somewhere that replacing the stock air filter with a cone air filter is a good idea. Why? Cost? Type and material recommendation?

Thanks.

 

Well, an aftermarket filter can improve airflow, smooth out throttle response, add more noise, and it is washable/reusable.

There are countless intakes on the market for all the MINIs. They are all pretty much the same. I have an old Alta 1.0 Cold Air Intake (CAI) with an itg CAI replacement filter from Minspeed.

 

Alright, I'll sort this one out for you.

There are two major types of intakes. The first, which is a sort of box with a filter element inside filtering the air as it gets sucked in, and the open element, more often referred to as CAIs, or cold air intakes. Basically, an engine needs air for combustion. When you let cooler air, at larger volumes in, it means the engine does not have to work as hard and it increases efficiency. Most CAIs just get rid of the airbox w/ the filter and instead replace it with a cone filter element, just right out there in the open. This allows more air to flow into the engine, as well as allows for colder air to come in.

However, this is one big downside to this, and oh boy, is it a biggie. If a large amount of water gets sucked into your intake, it can cause a hydrolock, in which the engine can not combust because of too much water in the cylinder.

Any other questions?

 

Important note: itg makes panel filter replacements that could essentially do a better job than most CAIs.

 

Link to said product?

 

http://www.minspeed.net/ITG.htm

 

Not bad, not bad. Good for a drop in filter. I still say an open element would be better though, especially if you open up the hood scoop a bit.

 

How does the ITG compare with the Alta drop in filter?

Thanks gang!