Re: K&N...long

[Christopher Cooley <chriscooley@worldnet.att.net>]

The list has spoken to this point repeatedly, so my apologies for redundancy.

I removed the snow mesh screen and tube thing fromt he top of my airbox.  A
couple thoughts:

1)    The snow screen mesh, when clean, should not restrict airflow to any
degree detectable.  I took it out anyway trusting my newly replaced paper
airfilter will do the job.
2)    The removal of the cone was a bitch.  After realizing how it "locks" into
place, I found myself spraying WD40 into a long crease created using an 8"
screwdriver.  With needle nose pliers and a bit of dexterity, it poped out after
about 10 minutes of fidgeting.

Result is the same described by other list members.  Nothing to talk about at
lower RPMs, but a detectable improved response to throttle at about 4,000+.
Louder, yeah, but performance is where the victory lies.  Never had my '97 GLX
on a dyno, so I'll guess at 5 bhp improvement.  Anyone have specs to confirm?

-Chris

Marc A. Brown wrote:

> >1) Has anyone gotten any static from their dealers regarding this
> >filter, the removal of the "snow screen" or removal of the snorkel? I
> >can't imagine that any dealership that wants to keep a decent
> >relationship with it's customers would make the filter an issue, but
> >with bumper to bumper warranties clogging up the mechanics time for
> >every little thing the screen or snorkel removal might give them grounds
> >to void the warranty.
>
> You shouldn't get any static from the dealership regarding the air box mod.
> Federal law states that a manufacturer cannot void someone's warranty for a
> modification unless they can prove (without a doubt) that the modification
> is the cause for the repair needed.
>
> >2) I noticed that there is another door on the lower airbox that is
> >spring loaded. Is this a door that opens at high rpm's to let in more
> >air or does it perform some other obscure function?
>
> The main function of the door is to let in more air under heavy
> acceleration.
>
> >3) Has anyone figured out a way to remove the snorkel from the upper box
> >without breaking it? Does removing the snorkel improve performance or
> >does it just make the engine sound better?
>
> The silencer is held in the air box by two tabs on each side (a screw holds
> it in on older models).  The tube is pretty flexible so you shouldn't have a
> problem bending it to pull it out.  I would suggest using a flathead
> screwdriver and wedging it in between the silencer and the air box.  If you
> push it down far enough, you will be able to pull out the tube.  It will
> take a little effort to pull it out though.  There is a slight hp gain on
> the high end, but don't look for anything dramatic.  The growl the engine
> emits is impressive though.
>
> Marc