Air Induction kit good or not??

[kontaktsounds]

Hi

i was checking out the air filter box on my 1998 318is and noticed that there is more to the air filter box and alot more sensors on the box/hoses than i had on my 1995 318is.
Specifically the plastic box positioned above the steering fluid resivoir.

Im wondering what it is and the purpose it serves and would i be disturbing things by fitting an aftermarket universal induction kit, eg K&N cone type.
As there are sensors all over this bit of kit am i going to balls something up??

thanks all

[thekid]

I'm not 100% sure but on the 98 might just have more sensors than the 95. I used to have a 95 318, but never looked under the hood on the 98. The 95 was the last year of OBDI the 96+ is OBDII which has a lot more electrically going on than the older models. If it still had an air box then it is stock.

That being said a CAI isn't a bad investment. It won't make a world of difference. But it can change your exhaust not a bit, perhaps a few more hp and marginally better fuel economy. But for otherwise stock, it's not a big difference just to do that.

[kontaktsounds]

I was thinking about the fuel economy thing and obviously with the engine breathing easier it should make a small difference but its not really HP im after although would be nice.
Essentially its a nice sound id like.

I think the only mods id make to this car is filter and new back box as the standard one is blowing slightly.

Any recommendations for a back box that gives a nice sound/looks good without being classed as a prat pipe (like the ones you see 16 yr olds fitting to a Punto!)

I have not got any manual with this car but i need to get a Haynes manual or something but i dont want to shell out the money really as they are well overpriced.

Do you know of anywhere on the net to get downloadable manuals as they would be cheaper and preferably free?

i know its alot of questions sorry!

[bimmertime]

i have put a k&n panel filter on my 97is and felt a difference and it sounds a bit more beefy, its great when you go through those tunnels as you come into the city center on the aston express way.