Hey guys.....sorry about the delay in posting the report after installing the e68 intake charger in my Ikon 1.6, but I wanted to wait a few days to check mileage figures too.......
First, some info/corrections:
The e68 is actually an
air-bleed device. The claimed way that this works is that the device (connected between the inlet manifold and some other line, usually the brake booster/servo) draws in an extra volume of air into the engine, thus leaning out the mixture. Those familiar with the K&N theory will agree that this IS a way to increase power and mileage, especially if the engine is running rich.
Buuuut, if you look at the entire intake's operation as per modern engines with ECUs, AFM, lambda sensors, etc, it becomes clear that simply leaning out the mixture will only cause the EMS to compensate by enriching the fuel mixture. Those interested may look into the following page/article for an expert skeptic's view on the operation of 'air-bleed' devices:
http://www.fuelsaving.info/air_bleed.htm
Skepticism aside, here's what I've found so far with the e68 in my vehicle:
- Adjusting the screw on the e68 during idling doesn't seem to affect the initial rpm at all....the website for the device suggests doing this to get back to normal idle rpm. However, on some cold starts (rarely), the initial rpm is slightly higher than normal, but then drops back.
- Torque: If there's been any increase, it's very marginal and even that could be a 'placebo' effect in my mind! However, I have found the engine to be a bit smoother at high rpms, probably even helping out in the change to higher gears....but I wouldn't call this a 'power' increase.
- Mileage: The interesting thing is, the e68 actually seemed to
increase mileage for a quarter of my tank's worth of driving...I usually get about 10.5 kpl (city) which actually went to almost 12 kpl these past couple of days! However, it's hard to say whether this was because of the e68 or because of the fact I've had pretty late nights at the office recently! (less traffic, for those confused)
To average out these factors, I'll have to wait till I get to empty-ish, hopefully at least another 110 kms....
The Verdict:
I hate to break it to y'all, but honestly, I don't feel the vehicle is any better off with the e68. Like I said, the only significant effect I've seen is a possible increase in mileage, which would cheer me up some. However, this effect does NOT justify the e68's price (~6.5 k, I'm serious!).
Now, I do need to point out two things:
1) On carb'ed cars that run a slightly rich mixture (see above and the posted link), air bleed devices ARE known to increase power by adding more air to the mixture.
2) My e68 installation is in a less-than-ideal spot - along the back of the engine bay with a relatively long line running to the inlet manifold. Perhaps exposure to colder air and shorter plumbing would help?? I am going to try this out soon and will update...
But till then, I do regret not saving the same amount of money for a) free-flow headers or b) porting and polishing work (both of which I WILL be doing, by the way!!)
See u on another thread.......