Injen CAI - does the filter get contaminated "quicker"

[Dimitrios]

OK, so I've been weighing my options of getting an AEM "SRI" or Injen "CAI"; does anyone with an Injen "CAI" (specifically in a Protege5 or other with the 2.0L and manual tranny) have issues with the filter getting contaminated or dirtier, than it would be if in the engine compartment, due to it being closer to the pavement and more open to environmental "trash". I had a $tillen "Pop" charger intake (I assume similar to the RActive MPro. intake) on my Nissan and it somehow always drew in those white, floating seeds that come around this time of year and other little items (mosquitoes, etc.). The oil and the "negative" air pressure (of the engine intake) contributed I know.

Also, what about rocks and things like that puncturing the clothe filter? I know all is possible in theory - I'm looking for actual facts.

Basically, just looking to get a better feel for how much maintenance it would require. Financially, it's coming down to a $40 difference between the Injen "CAI" and AEM "SRI".

Thanks in advance.
Dimitrios

 

[changedman]

well the injen draws air from the wheel well which is covered very well (no opening at bottom...) i hope that answers part of the question

 

[tonkabui]

on the injen, the filter is surrounded on 3.75 sides. there is a plastic splash guard that goes under the filter. the foglight is in front of the filter. the wheel well and front bumper near the amber bumper marker makes up the other side. there is a bit of a gap on the engine side, but that is all. it won't get damaged any more than the aem one. tucson is dusty as all heck, so i clean my filter every three or four oil changes. i'm on my second oil change since getting the injen, and a visual check on it doesn't look too bad. it is dirty though, but i can still see the red of the filter. i'll change it the next time i get an oil change.

 

[Dimitrios]

Good times...thanks....