Air Intake Mod

[blowndodge]

I've been thinking of doing this for awhile now but like the muffler mod, drilling on my Nomad takes a few drinks to get the courage!!

With so many kits available out there and mounting options, either right or left side I wanted to try something different.

I wanted to be able to increase the air plus have cooler air coming into the motor and I didn't want to have to disable any of the ECU operated controls for cold starting : ie, solenoids and air tubes. That would have been the right side air mod that lots have done with good results. Just wanted a no cost way without disabling anything.

Some have replaced the left side with the Caddmann mod and and a open element. Nice but it doesn't match the right side and looks like moisture "could" find it's way in.

I went with modifying the left side by drilling the bottom of the side cover with 3/16th hole, two rows 14 holes in each row side by side over the bottom third of the chrome cover. So from about the 8 o'clock position to 4 o'clock I have the two rows of holes and they are next to the rubber liner around the edge of the cover.

This mod would prevent rain or water falling from above and/or splashing from underneath because of the left side case sticks out further than the air cleaner cover. Also, for those that have changed their filters you'll see a shelf that would block splashing upwards toward the filter element.

I'm was trying to find a way to get more and cooler air into the engine since the only air that comes in the intake is through that little rubber triangular boot. That stock opening is right between the cylinders and the air that is drawn into the motor is super heated!

I have trippled the amount of available air with the holes plus much cooler air should be able to find it's way in. All this additional air still has to pass through the filter.

No real decernable intake noise is heard since the holes face downward until I open the throttle all the way and then it's barely noticable as a soft drone.

At the moment the throttle response seems to be noticably sharper on the bottom end when taking off. Time will tell.

[beezer]

you're kidding

[rlfaubion]

I'm going to have to read that tomorrow again, but I'm interested. Pictures always help for those having trouble understanding a whole sentence this late

[tomk]

That was an intense operation!

[Top Cat]

OK, what would you think the pro's and con's would be of getting more and cooler air into the bike? Just wanting to know what you are trying to achieve :)

[blowndodge]

The "Pro's" are that cooler air is making it's way to the air temp sensor telling the ECU not to lean out the motor when the air is hot. In the summer time in California, remember the highest octane gas we get is 91 unlike 93 in lots of other states, overheating can cause bad engine performance. Cooler air is also denser air which contains more molecules of oxygen.

Since I've done the bafflectomy, minutely releaving some back pressure I wanted to increase the available intake as well as a balance. More cooler air coming in easier and more heated air coming out easier. Take off the left air cleaner air filter cover and just look at how small the intake hole is and you'll see what I mean.

I can't think of con's at the moment since I haven't met too many who've opened up their air intakes, either bike or cage and haven't like the results. I will post pics later. Was busy today and didn't take any but will show you what I did later.

[Top Cat]

Thanks for the reply BD.
Waiting your results and will probably have more questions

[blowndodge]

Until I take pictures the holes are right next to the rubber gasket that seals the cover. You can't see the two rows of holes unless you get on the ground and look from underneath. It's totally hidden for plain view.

[beezer]

assume the position and let's see some pics

[blowndodge]

Arf Art

[Idaho]

I understand exactly what you have done and can't wait to see how it works out for you. Sounds like a great idea.

[blowndodge]

Thank's Idaho. Hey if it doesn't work out I can always buy those custom covers that have gold etching "live to ride" "ride to live" logos!! LOL !

[Idaho]

Or, you could just put duct tape over the holes.

[blowndodge]

Here's a picture thats not real clear but you'll get the idea

[Todd]

At least you weren't naked in the reflection...whew!! I was worried!!!