[aauzzy]

Looking for a more expert/experienced opinion on if anyone has done this on their n54. I am looking at this from similar perspective to there being no inlet on a big ST setup. I tried out the vsrf 2” inlets for my upgraded turbos but then I added throttle body injection. Now, the 2” inlets just aren’t working out. Also, I just don’t like the front inlet in front of the engine it’s taking up too much space.

I’ve looked at relocated inlets and I honestly don’t like that option either. So, that is why I am looking at possibly doing inlets delete. My idea is to either get some small 2” “motorcycle” filters to put on the ends of my turbos just to filter the air OR a metal/mesh screen (like ST setup). I will also do a headlight delete duct to get cold air into the hot side.

These being the solutions to the 2 main concerns that I see - 1. Stuff getting into the turbos and 2. Turbos sucking in “hotter” air.

Is this a good idea? TIA

[darkfires102]

Relocated is the best way. You don't want unfiltered dirty hot air getting in the rear turbo, because that's all it's gonna get.

[aauzzy]

Is this fact or opinion? Have you tried this?

[whyzee125]

IMO I wouldn't run without anything. Small motorcycle filters could work but you'd be sucking some pretty hot air down there. If you're willing to do a headlight delete, I'd route them up there which would at least still give you a fresh flow of unheated air. It would be cool to customize your headlight, leaving the assembly in place but making each projector a hole for the air to flow then filtering it somehow!

[aauzzy]

Originally Posted by whyzee125

IMO I wouldn't run without anything. Small motorcycle filters could work but you'd be sucking some pretty hot air down there. If you're willing to do a headlight delete, I'd route them up there which would at least still give you a fresh flow of unheated air. It would be cool to customize your headlight, leaving the assembly in place but making each projector a hole for the air to flow then filtering it somehow!

Thanks appreciate the input!

[Cloverdale]

Have you attempted to drive it without turbo inlets? When I removed the inlet piping connected to the throttle body on an LT1 the car wouldn't accelerate responsively.

[aauzzy]

Originally Posted by Cloverdale

Have you attempted to drive it without turbo inlets? When I removed the inlet piping connected to the throttle body on an LT1 the car wouldn't accelerate responsively.

Not sure how LT1 is designed but n54 inlets are just a pipe going to the other side of the car with a filter at the end from the turbine wheel.

[whyzee125]

Originally Posted by Cloverdale

Have you attempted to drive it without turbo inlets? When I removed the inlet piping connected to the throttle body on an LT1 the car wouldn't accelerate responsively.

I’m guessing those have a MAF which is a whole different ball game. He would need to re tune but aside from sucking things into the turbos it should be doable

[Cloverdale]

Originally Posted by whyzee125

I’m guessing those have a MAF which is a whole different ball game. He would need to re tune but aside from sucking things into the turbos it should be doable

You're correct, the LT1 in my 92 Vette did use a MAF sensor at the throttle body (as our N54's also do). Loved that car but it wasn't practical economically to go after big horsepower with it.

[lookalikehuuh]

I actually have a friend that has a car with a turbo and no inlet filter... his used oil analisys actually has huge amounts of silicone in the results every time because dirt is being melted into silicone in the combustion process and contaminating his oil. He doesn't really give a crap because its a honda and his engine is a dime a dozen at the junk yards.

Long story short if you don't care about engine longevity then go for it. If you do care, I don't suggest running without an air filter since it will remove lots of dirt particles.