CAI filter cleaning

[gixxerman]

Ok this is a newbi question, but I'm thinking of getting a CAI or SAI for my Mazda 3 or just the K&N filter replacement. My question is about the CAI's. Do you have to remove your front bumper to be able to pull the air filter to clean it or can you get to it by removing the bottom splash guard pan? Just wanted to know before investing in a CAI, because if I have to remove the bumper it's not worth my time for the 5 hp gain so I'll just get the SAI instead.
Thanks for your help

 

[Rotus8]

It's easy to get at the filter. Three philips head screws and the cover comes down. Two bolts to take off the shield and a hose clamp to take out the filter.

I suggest getting a second filter. I cleaned mine this weekend and you have to let it dry before putting it back in, and in our current weather, it took a full day to dry.

 

[gixxerman]

that doesn't sound to bad. So is it the bottom splash guard your calling the cover right. Not the bumper itself?
Thanks for the reply.
BTW did you notice any increase in power or worse yet loose any midrange with the CAI.

 

[Rotus8]

that doesn't sound to bad. So is it the bottom splash guard your calling the cover right. Not the bumper itself?
Thanks for the reply.
BTW did you notice any increase in power or worse yet loose any midrange with the CAI.

It's not the bumper. It's also not the big cover under the engine. It is a small plastic flap under the corner of the bumper.

The CAI gives quite noticeable midrange boost up to where the power starts to drop off, about 5500. No loss of anything as far as I can tell.

 

[gixxerman]

Cool even better. Here I was thinking it would be a pain to clean. I'll pick up and extra filter to like you said to make it quick to change out. Glad to here there is no negatives to gaining power.
Thank again for your help. I'll be getting the MAZDASPEED CAI soon

 

[Pondo]

Cool even better. Here I was thinking it would be a pain to clean. I'll pick up and extra filter to like you said to make it quick to change out. Glad to here there is no negatives to gaining power.
Thank again for your help. I'll be getting the MAZDASPEED CAI soon

Excelent choice (yippy)