Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

What did you do to your TJ today?

I have done several different iterations of filters on mine over the years, from flat panel engine filters to shaped filters with more surface area to cut up cabin filters from my wife's minivan. All produced a very noticable drop in flow that you could easily measure with a precision Mark 1 hand in front of the vent. None of my Frankenstein creations looked that clean, but I worry that filter doesn't have enough surface area. I'd suggest just turning the ignition to "run" with the engine off and feel the flow coming from the vent with the filter in, then removing and see what you think.
 
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but I worry that filter doesn't have enough surface area

Based on rough calculations, the surface area of the filter is at least equal to if not greater than the smallest cross section of the factory duct as well as the fresh air intake door (the exposed portion, anyway). Now the K&N filter is slightly reduced compared to a paper cartridge due to its construction, but I believe the previous to still be true. Logic would suggest that placing anything in the flow would reduce it, however, I cannot discern a difference with my hand at the vents inside. Having said that, I've found the hvac system in the Jeep less than impressive at full blow, with or without a cabin filter....but she sure makes lots of blowy noises... :D

I will try to figure out a way to demonstrate. (y)
 
Hope this doesn’t get me banned from this forum: installed badlands winch on a aluminum UCF winch plate

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New LUK clutch/TO bearing/pilot bearing/release fork/pivot, new Mopar crank sensor (cause I was right there) new VC gasket, changed oil in both axles and installed Lubelocker gaskets, changed transfer case fluid, changed transmission fluid with Redline MTL, replaced transfer case vent and line/cap, replaced thermostat housing due to small leak, new AC Delco air cleaner (the best of the best) and the Savvy transfer case shift cable kit...takes deep breath. That's about it for this round. Someday I'll get to the radio, wheels and headlights...sigh.


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Would a Kestrel measure accurately enough? Not exactly inexpensive but not crazy either.

We find out the answer to that question on today's episode of "Feckin' wit Chili's LJ"...

All produced a very noticable drop in flow that you could easily measure with a precision Mark 1 hand in front of the vent. None of my Frankenstein creations looked that clean, but I worry that filter doesn't have enough surface area. I'd suggest just turning the ignition to "run" with the engine off and feel the flow coming from the vent with the filter in, then removing and see what you think.

If you can't tell a difference with your hands, I'm satisfied. Anything beyond that would be academic.

Indeed, but figured a little data couldn't hurt. We now have data. I seem to have misplaced my pocket protector, pardon.... :geek:

Had a couple of hours of violent storms last night with a tornado warning, no water in the footwell (at least not from the cowl ;)). Removed the cowl panel and flooded the sub-cowl with a garden hose to the point of standing water multiple times today at lunch, no water in the footwell. Short of shooting water in the air horn, I don't think it's getting in under normal use. Now, on to the meat and taters...

Air flow test conditions:
  • LJ hardtop installed, full doors, windows closed
  • cowl panel off
  • vehicle warmed to OT and idling (I lose vac quickly if not running)
  • fan on full
  • temp @ 12 o'clock
  • air setting at high vent, non/ac setting
  • all vents as closed as they get except driver's side high center
  • test device: Kestrel 2500, positioned approx. 2" from center of vent (highest speed reading)
My cabin air filter duct was in place for both readings, the only difference being the installation of the K&N filter element and the cartridge box door as opposed to being open. Open test produced a reading of 12.6-12.9 mph (hovering frequently at 12.8), closed test produced a reading of 10.7-10.8 mph. Best I can do for a fair fight, but I suppose one takeaway is that I apparently can't sense a 2 mph difference in my Jeep's hvac system with my fleshy mitts... :D
 
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My cabin air filter duct was in place for both readings, the only difference being the installation of the K&N filter element and the cartridge box door as opposed to being open. Open test produced a reading of 12.6-12.9 mph (hovering frequently at 12.8), closed test produced a reading of 10.7-10.8 mph.

15% reduction in airflow. Andy
 
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Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts