Open Element Air Filters, are they worth it

[tkruger]

I have an 1987 Monte Carlo 4.3 TBI. All stock except for the AC being converted to 134a. Other than looks is there any advantage to an open element air cleaner? Specifically the Summit Racing ones (under $40 not including a good filter). The current one only draws in warm air through what appears to be a small snorkel. Will this engine gain anything by doing this or am I better using the $40 for gas? Is there any disadvantages?

If I were to put one on any other items I need to consider?

 

[pontiacgp]

your tbi will regulate the air fuel mixture so there is no advantage as far I as I know. Save the $40 to spend on refreshments...🙂

 

[Rktpwrd]

your tbi will regulate the air fuel mixture so there is no advantage as far I as I know. Save the $40 to spend on refreshments...🙂

I disagree. An engine that can breathe freely without restrictions (both in AND out) will always be happier than one that can't. I try and explain this to my compressor customers all the time. I tell them this:
Try breathing through a straw sometime (like your engine is doing through that tiny snorkel) vs breathing normally. Your engine is trying to do the same thing. Anytime you can make the air in and out it will perform better and be more efficient.
Doesn't matter if it's a top alcohol engine or your 4.3L.
Spend the couple'a bucks, and let her breathe.

 

[565bbchevy]

I know on my Regal which has an all stock 307, the valve cover uses the air cleaner as a crankcase breather so you might need to plumb a tube to the base of the open element air cleaner from the valve cover if you have a similar set up. I will be eventually changing my air cleaner when I put some nice valve covers on and set them up with their own breather.

 

[CWPottenger]

It will help it breathe. Only thing snorkels are good for is if they actually go to a "clean air" spot outside of the engine bay, provided that the snorkel(s) do not restrict the airflow.

 

[84cutspreme]

This was an interesting read. there is even a formula for air filter size requirements

http://www.knfilters.com/filter_facts.aspx?pkid=2606302&rw=13#SELECT