K&n Cai??

[MaxxChris]

Im looking to get a Cold air intake for my car to replace the stock box, and I have a few questions. First off does anyone run the K&N unit (http://www.modbargains.com/product.aspx?pf_id=bmw-e36-intake008)? Secondly, are there any concerns I should have about the engine injesting water with a CAI of any sort?? Im also considering the carbon fiber kit from Bav auto that seems to collect air from lower down behind the bumper (is identical to this (http://www.modbargains.com/product.aspx?pf_id=bmw-e36-intake010) one) Any thoughts?

[MaxxChris]

As search answered most of my questions except for the water issues, but from what I gather the farther down the filter sits, the greater the chance of sucking in water. Any ideas would still be welcome.

[325icintn]

Correct. Some units have a system to keep water out. Not sure which.

I think you should use the short intake/heat shielded box ala AA with the stock snorkel feeding the shielded box. The snorkel brings in lots of ambient well above any water line.

[Quailane]

I have that K&N unit in my car. No issues.

[1997bmw328]

just get a k&n and put it in the stock box there is no doffrence

[Quailane]

just get a k&n and put it in the stock box there is no doffrence

If he is keeping the stock box he should stick with the paper filters. The big difference is the sound. I think it sounds good sometimes, other times I think it is too loud or ricey. It came one my car and I like it enough not to swap it out for the stock airbox.

[MaxxChris]

Im thinking K&N with the stock snorkel feeding the shielded area. Will the snorkel still fit with the K&N shield.

[Quailane]

Im thinking K&N with the stock snorkel feeding the shielded area. Will the snorkel still fit with the K&N shield.

You would have to cut the shield. It is some pretty tough plastic.

[thrylos98]

not sure that you would get an increase in performance using K&N filters (or any cold air induction system vs. stock). Maybe a decrease in replacement cost, but that's about it. Run a dyno test before and after. That will tell you all you need to know. Unless you replace the chip, the same air % will be let in regardless the filter and/or intake...

[jtspells]

With the k&n FIPK kit you get everything you need, it is what i have in my 323 and everything has been good with it the whole time i have had it in

[MaxxChris]

That's interesting. I'm planning an M50 intake and custom exhaust from the headers back in the future, would a CAI be more beneficial with increased flow elsewhere?

[sprocket1200]

323 love!

i happened to do my K&N filter first. i was surprised by the quicker throttle response and extra power. I then did the exhaust and sharked it.

I would do all these mods again as they all helped make the car much better at each step. now with them working together i am always surprised how eager it is to pull hard even up hills. before i would classify the car as lazy and lethargic.

from what i have learned i would do the exhaust first, then K&N, then shark as I feel these made the biggest differences in that order. PM me if you have any questions.

no issues with K&N performance or water problems and I live on the WET coast...

[MaxxChris]

323 love!

i happened to do my K&N filter first. i was surprised by the quicker throttle response and extra power. I then did the exhaust and sharked it.

I would do all these mods again as they all helped make the car much better at each step. now with them working together i am always surprised how eager it is to pull hard even up hills. before i would classify the car as lazy and lethargic.

from what i have learned i would do the exhaust first, then K&N, then shark as I feel these made the biggest differences in that order. PM me if you have any questions.

no issues with K&N performance or water problems and I live on the WET coast...

Awesome, thanks man!! 323's!!:buttrock

[NYst4te0fm1nd]

many CAIs do go lower in the car than the stock box because the objective is to suck in colder air, thus increasing performance in the car. i know that Cosmos Racing sells one with a hydrowrap which is designed to keep water out if you happen to drive through a big puddle, in turn, preventing hydrolock.

i havent put one in my car yet but i am going to soon. pretty sure im going with the Cosmos Racing because i hear good things about it in terms of sound and a minor horse power boost. Also check out Dinan because they have good products although, i believe their CAI is a bit more pricey than the cosmos.

[black3]

My car came with the k&n air filter, and it looks pretty beat up.
how do I tell if it needs replacement?

[iowaboostin]

^ You don't replace K&N filters, go to an auto parts store and buy the K&N recharge kit and clean it.

[allerac]

i got the cosmos with the hydro wrap, a little shield to go over it... i love the sound of it
cosmosracing.com if you are interested free shipping if you belong to these forums