After some extensive research, I think I want to buy a CAI.
And don't say I haven't searched...trust me I have, too long.

While I have considered the FIPK or Comptech, but both cost more, use more engine bay space, are subject to heat, and have less gains (in general).
Plus, the sound of a true CAI is unbeatable for the price. (No J's/ASM for me )


Let me start out by saying I live near Cleveland, where sh*tty weather is 9 months out of the year. The car is my DD; I drive in hard rain/ ice/ snow, you name it.
Also, a lot of my hard driving tends to be in bad weather. I just redlined on the highway today in slight rain. Also, snow drifting is a daily activity in the winter


All three of these intake systems seem to have the same gains and the same filter placement. The only difference I have found is that the AEM (v2) has a upwards bend upwards right by the filter which results in possible water accumulation.

To protect from rain dripping onto the filter, I'll install a ghetto umbrella.

As far as water from the bottom/ submerging the filter, how does this happen. In all honesty, I don't see how it is possible to submerge the filter at all. I'm not trying to be a smartass, but can someone explain to me how this would happen?

How big and deep would the "puddle" have to be?
I'm guessing it would have to be as wide as the front end so that both tires drop into it and be at least 6 inches deep.

I don't think I've ever got close to the bottom of my car touching any water.
I know that I've hydroplaned in big puddles and I bet a lot of water sprayed up, but I've never felt the car dip 5 inches...which is what it would take right?

Also, wouldn't the underbody plastic prevent the filter from splashes? If it doesn't would it work if i put a piece of solid plastic in its place so that water would be rejected? or is it important for that piece to allow air?

Specifically, in this picture:

the intake is protected from water dripping.
As for submerging the filter, that is the advantage the aem has. it sits higher due to the bend.
but as a precation, what if I put a solid piece of plastic/fiberglass over that underbody plastic to seal the intake from the bottom source of water. Would'nt it be fully protected? I know I'd lose some air, but I plan on venting the faux brake ducts.
But seriously, if I did this, wouldn't it take water all the way up to the bumper in order to get to the intake? Or is there some other source?

I'm sorry if I sound crazy. I know that this has been discussed. But in all honesty, I have searched for a LONG time going back and forth.

In conclusion, I think the best route to go is the higher up AEMv2 with an umbrella shield for above, a solid underbody panel, easily made of fiberglass, and cutting the brake ducts (with a water-guard) for a huge amount of cold ram air while protecting from water. I want something that will match an NFR. (red, black, plain)

Please let me know your thoughts/ideas/opinions.

Thank you in advance for any help.

I know it is a very rare occurence, and is blown way out of proportion, but I want to be sure it won't blow up on me.
And I don't want the box intakes...cold airs have too many other benefits.

Thanks again

 

You have some good ideas. I myself live in Utah. The weather can be very unpredictable here too. And the S2000 is also my dd. I should have taken a pic of my car yesterday when it was under 7" of snow. And yes, I did go driving. LOL.

Anyway, I have an Injen CAI. All I did was seal all the holes in the plastic beneath the filter. I didn't make a shield or anything to that affect. I wouldn't worry about air not getting to the filter. Unless you sealed literally every opening, so that it was leak proof. Air will find it's way in there.

As for the water puddle issue. If it's a dark puddle and I can't see the road underneath, I will usually go around. I don't think large water puddles will be a huge concern on main roads anyway.

 

I'm in Houston and we definitely get rain. It's something you really need to worry that much about. Make sure you plug the hole in the fender above the filter and/or use an umbrella to keep the filter from getting soaked when you're parked in the rain. As for driving -- just use some common sense when it rains.