Performance is lowering

[Klaus]

I´ve got a Bravo 1.4 SX (1996) and I haven´t been satisfied with the acceleration performance. So I chose the K&N airfilter. After installing it the result was outrageous, it felt like the car had 15 bhp more and I was very happy! Now, after driving with it, I´ve noticed, that the performance is as low again as before. Is that normal? What can I do about it? I have the feeling that the electronic seems to block the performance (not funny at all!). Anybody who can help me to keep the performance on top?

 

[James G]

Performance

Disconnect the battery to reset your ECU (Make sure you have the stereo code). If performance returns then the ECU is learning your driving style and moderating fuel flow/airflow etc, to try and improve economy (probably). I notice this after I've been to my parents who live in the country. Open roads and lots of overtaking makes the car feel much more lively for the monday morning bumper to bumper grind that it has for the rest of the week.

If nothing changes I suspect you've just got used to it!!

 

[Syed]

Performance

Did you purchase a in-box K&N air filter or the external (cone type) K&N air filter. If the external unit without heat shield, the filter may suck hot air which may caused low performance.

By the way, did you change the exhaust system.

Thanks.

 

[John]

Performance Filters

IMHO I expect once the engine management figured out that there was more air getting into the engine it 'thought' it was running too lean. So then it countered that by increasing the amount of fuel being injected to restore the balance. The net effect of adding an air filter without any other mods is just an increase in fuel consumption! Where do the power gains come from? You'd need to chip it for starters to get rid of the 'economy' setting.

 

[Klaus]

Air-filter

I only got the inbox air-filter ...
Anyway I would like to have an other exhaust. Which one do you recommend, that doesn´t sound loud and aggressive?

 

[Syed]

Air Filter and Exhaust System

To get full performance, change to a complete Supersprint Exhaust System. From extractor staright to the rear exhaust box. You will feel the extra performance.

 

[Gonzalo]

K&N kit

I thought the same.
More air -> more fuel (the ECU will set the 14:1 ratio)
But more fuel -> more power, isn't it?

The 57i Induction Kit from K&N, which i have, came with a "cold air hose". It's a flexible hose that takes cold air from behind the front grille and leads it to the filter cone, so it doesn't "breath" hot air from the engine bay.

Regards

Gonzalo

 

[David]

How much? Where from?

How much is this Supersprint exhaust system and where can I get one? My HLX needs one bad!