Air Intake

[Ceecee85]

The pipe/ tube that links the external air inlet grille to the air filter box is missing on my van. Only just noticed. It runs fine but what am I missing- how much better could it run?!?! So I guess the question is- what's the point of it in the first place? Should I be that concerned and go and get myself a replacement to install?

[Verne]

Engines run better with cold air, hence the intake grill feeding the air box.

If the airbox is just taking in air from the engine bay, then the air is warm/hot and not ideal. You can either replace the stock items that are missing or go for a 'custom' job and pipe in air from a convenient place.

[Ceecee85]

Thanks for that Verne.

I had a look online at the usual "shops" but the bits aren't listed. Looks like a Heath Robinson alternative awaits!

[kevtherev]

VW put the snorkle on the air vent to prevent water ingress.
The air that comes down the grill duct at any road speed is cool enough.
I have had no connection to the grill for several years, with no issues whatsoever.

[JackE]

The pipe on mine was removed, I was told that this was better as it is almost impossible to tune the LPG system correctly if it is in place, due to gusts of wind changing the air/fuel mixture too much. I am running an open loop LPG system so this may not be case with other or with non LPGed engine.