Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Care to share your experiences with using a Buick airbox on a TJ?

Stinkbug

Stinkbug

TJ Enthusiast
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It seems that several on this forum have used the Buick airbox as a replacement for the stock box when the space was needed for something else.This topic has my attention because it seems to package well and the project is a little less involved than the windstar approach.

I am a little hesitant because I believe the early 90’s Buick Century boxes often referenced were originally on 3.3L engines and the filters are roughly half the size of of the stock TJ filter.

I would appreciate the insight of those that have used this mod. In particular, have you noticed any reduction in engine performance or anything else’s that made you second guess the decision?

I also noticed that some have adapted the TJ airbox inlet cone to the Buick box while others have not. I believe I read that it’s purpose on the factory airbox has to do with increasing velocity of the airflow or something… is there a strong reason to go with or without the cone?
 
I had the same concern about the filter size. I didn’t notice any seat of the pants performance difference. I did check the filter more often to see if it got dirtier quicker. No difference noted. I bought a used intake tube off eBay so I could still put all my OEM stuff back on if needed.

You may have seen it, but here’s my info.

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Stinkbug said:
It seems that several on this forum have used the Buick airbox as a replacement for the stock box when the space was needed for something else.This topic has my attention because it seems to package well and the project is a little less involved than the windstar approach.

I am a little hesitant because I believe the early 90’s Buick Century boxes often referenced were originally on 3.3L engines and the filters are roughly half the size of of the stock TJ filter.

I would appreciate the insight of those that have used this mod. In particular, have you noticed any reduction in engine performance or anything else’s that made you second guess the decision?

I also noticed that some have adapted the TJ airbox inlet cone to the Buick box while others have not. I believe I read that it’s purpose on the factory airbox has to do with increasing velocity of the airflow or something… is there a strong reason to go with or without the cone?
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either box you go with be sure to keep either a stock unit or some other carb compliant version on hand for smog time since you are in cali.

i'm using the windstar box and keep my old k&n in the parts closet for smog day.
 
I run a box out of an early 2000’s Ford pickup with the triton V-10. It’s the windstar/Buick style but flows more CFM for if I ever put on a stroker or forced Induction. I noticed slightly lower IAT’s and a very occasional whistle at part throttle under load (certain circumstances). For me it was peace of mind with water intrusion and opening up some more space in the engine bay for other components. I couldn’t notice any performance improvements, but it’s a jeep. Certainly hasn’t given me any problems and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again. Solved all the dust intrusion I was getting with the PO’s K&N “cold air upgrade”. Now I can go through a dusty trial day and have a perfectly clean throttle body filters last forever being oversized for the job. Remind me an I can post some pictures tomorrow.
 
In my first version of it, I noticed really high incoming air temps in the summer months because it’s pulling air from right in the middle of the hood area. Like 150-160° while parked and idling. It would drop to 130’s while driving. The reason I made the DIY silicone intake tube was to try to draw in some slightly cooler air similar to OEM intake. I’ll have to wait until next year to see how much difference it makes in it because the weather started cooling off by the time I got all the parts in to make it.
 
What are you installing where you need the additional space? I'd be very hesitant to convert to the Buick air intake if it's really more for rumors (false) of better performance.
 
Jerry Bransford said:
What are you installing where you need the additional space? I'd be very hesitant to convert to the Buick air intake if it's really more for rumors (false) of better performance.
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I understand the best intake system is a stock air box. No debate there and my decision has zero to do with any expectation of increased performance. I am just making room for my York onboard air that is nestled up next to my existing a/c compressor occupying the area once reserved for the airbox.
 
KingCarGuyZ said:
I run a box out of an early 2000’s Ford pickup with the triton V-10. It’s the windstar/Buick style but flows more CFM for if I ever put on a stroker or forced Induction. I noticed slightly lower IAT’s and a very occasional whistle at part throttle under load (certain circumstances). For me it was peace of mind with water intrusion and opening up some more space in the engine bay for other components. I couldn’t notice any performance improvements, but it’s a jeep. Certainly hasn’t given me any problems and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again. Solved all the dust intrusion I was getting with the PO’s K&N “cold air upgrade”. Now I can go through a dusty trial day and have a perfectly clean throttle body filters last forever being oversized for the job. Remind me an I can post some pictures tomorrow.
Click to expand...

Your use of a larger box has my attention. If you get a chance, I would like to see it pictures of that Ford Intake in the engine bay. With all the A/C plumbing on the passenger side, I am interested to see how the larger box fits in there…
 
Stinkbug said:
Your use of a larger box has my attention. If you get a chance, I would like to see it pictures of that Ford Intake in the engine bay. With all the A/C plumbing on the passenger side, I am interested to see how the larger box fits in there…
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Slacker
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I'm assuming this intake swap would be needed for a hi line conversion? Or is there another reason?
 
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Stinkbug said:
I understand the best intake system is a stock air box. No debate there and my decision has zero to do with any expectation of increased performance. I am just making room for my York onboard air that is nestled up next to my existing a/c compressor occupying the area once reserved for the airbox.
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That makes perfect sense, I did the same thing when I installed my York too.

AirCompressorYork.jpg
 
Stinkbug said:
My neighbors would hear a constant flow of choice curse words echoing down the alley if I ever attempted such a project.

What’s going on in there? Highlines and coil overs? What is that thing circled in red?

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Yes, coil overs, high lines, cold air intake, custom filter holder. The thing circled in red is a PSC positive pressure check valve for the steering reservoir.
 
Stinkbug said:
My neighbors would hear a constant flow of choice curse words echoing down the alley if I ever attempted such a project.

What’s going on in there? Highlines and coil overs? What is that thing circled in red?
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I'm surprised you didn't notice the highlighted bit.
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This looks very interesting. I want to try this with my 5.3. The filter looks to have the same surface area as the a cone filter I used for a bit that performed the exact same as the bigger filter so I do not see this being a restriction. This might help a lot with the hot intake air temps I experience and seal it up better when I make my trip to the sand dunes.

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Stinkbug said:
Your use of a larger box has my attention. If you get a chance, I would like to see it pictures of that Ford Intake in the engine bay. With all the A/C plumbing on the passenger side, I am interested to see how the larger box fits in there…
Click to expand...

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I have had no problems with it, probably had it on for 10-15k miles tons better than the K&N that was on it from the PO. Even managed to get the PCV in looking factory, had to cut down and plastic weld the intake casing but I have no leaks. I think I actually got the intake originally from @toximus for some reason. Drilling a 3” hole into the cowl area is nerve-racking but after that it’s fine.
 
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KingCarGuyZ said:
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I have had no problems with it, probably had it on for 10-15k miles tons better than the K&N that was on it from the PO. Even managed to get the PCV in looking factory, had to cut down and plastic weld the intake casing but I have no leaks. I think I actually got the intake originally from @toximus for some reason. Drilling a 3” hole into the cowl area is nerve-racking but after that it’s fine.
Click to expand...

Yup. You probably did get it from me. 👍
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts
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