Re: Intake air preheat

[Allan Jones <ampj@tiac.net>]

> While investigating a cold-start rattle this weekend, I discovered
> that not only is the heat shield/air pre-heat assembly loose, but
> there was no duct attached to it.  Given that this vehicle is a
> preowned VAG product, this doesn't surprise me, but further
> investigation revealed that the counterpart intake port to the air
> cleaner was deliberately blocked.
> 
> My Bentley indicates that the air cleaner assembly on this engine is
> normally hooked to the exhaust shield via thermostatic control.  (Not
> having delved in there yet, I assume its the typical VW paraffin
> expander connected to a doorway.)  I suspect a failure to understand
> engine operating requirements on the part of whoever did the blocking.
> However, on the remote chance that there was a TSB directing this, I
> would appreciate it if any list member who is aware of such a
> directive would so inform me.  (I will also entertain speculation on
> whether this causes cold weather enrichment or leaning, not to mention
> potential icing.)
 

    I have removed all forms of <heat shield / air pre-heat assembly /
expander / ducts> that is/was attached to my air cleaner box. Now my K&N
air filter is simply exposed to basic/natural outside-temp air! I have
also drilled holes in my airbox to increase flow. After reading the
above post, I am wondering about repercussions, if any. Please
elaborate.. . .
					TIA!
						Allan('86 Coupe GT)