Tips on how to install K&N Air Filter ?

[know-a-little2]

Hi - I'm Rob; new to the forum.

I'll get right to the point. I need your help.

Have an 88 Buick Estate Wagon 3.8L SFI ...
trying to install an new Round type K&N 0870 Air Filter but finding no access to get the Air Cleaner top off.

Are there access point(s), screws, clips on the air cleaner housing that are hidden from view?
So far I've been able to loosen & pull the MAF tube to the side - that's all. So no new K&N filter install.

So far Web and library searches have not been real helpful.

thanks in advance,
Rob

Yes I've ordered a repair manual ....

[richtazz]

wlecome to AF.

1st off, K&N replacement drop in air filters are useless in my opinion. The factory filter and airbox flow exceeds the CFM draw of your engine, so any supposed flow increase is theoretical, and your engine cannot take advantage of it. On top of that, those cotton gauze filters allow more contaminants into your engine, they just don't trap dirt as well.

That being said, to get to your air filter, remove the 90 degree bent tube that connects the air box to the MAF sensor housing. At the top of your airbox, you should now see a wing nut that holds the cover of the airbox to the base. Remove the wing-nut and the top half of the airbox should come off (there is a seal in there so it may need a little prying if it's stuck together) and voila', there is the air filter.

[know-a-little2]

Originally Posted by richtazz

wlecome to AF.

1st off, K&N replacement drop in air filters are useless in my opinion. The factory filter and airbox flow exceeds the CFM draw of your engine, so any supposed flow increase is theoretical, and your engine cannot take advantage of it. On top of that, those cotton gauze filters allow more contaminants into your engine, they just don't trap dirt as well.

That being said, to get to your air filter, remove the 90 degree bent tube that connects the air box to the MAF sensor housing. At the top of your airbox, you should now see a wing nut that holds the cover of the airbox to the base. Remove the wing-nut and the top half of the airbox should come off (there is a seal in there so it may need a little prying if it's stuck together) and voila', there is the air filter.

You're probably correct about contaminants - perhaps that why others say the K&Ns flow better 'cause they don't trap the nasty stuff. My new K & N will have to sit on the shelf until I get the filter resold. Thanks for your input and tips on the housing procedure.
RJ

[richtazz]

you're very welcome.