Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

[Rick G.]

Does anyone recommend (or not) using foam elements in sidedraft carborators in a 54 vette? I am afraid the small screens on the carbs aren't doing much to filter out contaminants.

Comments?

[Cathy S.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

They will filter a lot more than the original screens.

[Philip C.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

Does anyone recommend (or not) using foam elements in sidedraft carborators in a 54 vette? I am afraid the small screens on the carbs aren't doing much to filter out contaminants.

Comments?

Hi Rick what kind of foam? are they made for the bullet air cleaners? and how much are you driving it? Phil 8063

[Bruce B.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

FYI.
I had a repro foam air cleaner filter on my 62 340 HP car and after a few years the foam turned to powder.
Be careful what type of foam is used.

[Rick G.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

Philip: i presently do NOT have foam elements in my carb filters. i was asking if others do. i only drive the car about 20 - 50 miles per month, and only during nice weather.

[Philip C.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

Philip: i presently do NOT have foam elements in my carb filters. i was asking if others do. i only drive the car about 20 - 50 miles per month, and only during nice weather.

Hi Rick sorry I didnt get back to you, They came from the factory with just the screens, I feel what your feeling, you could use some small engine air filter foam on the outside of the bullets for extra air cleaning. I'll bet you could find some that will slide right over them. Phil 8063

[Willard M.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

I see some foam inserts on Ebay and some vendors appear to carry them as well. My 54 does not have anything except the screens but they would seem to let anything go through short of a small bird. Doesn't look like one of GM's better ideas.

[Jim L.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

You don't want to go nuts trying to get better air filtration for the old 6 banger.

If the new filter you install is more restrictive than the wire mesh (very likely), it will make the engine see a richer mixture (think partially turning on the choke). If you have the means to measure and correct, as needed, the air/fuel ratio then this is a non issue.

Otherwise, you are almost certainly better off retaining the wire mesh and its ability to block entry by the hands of small children.

No, the wire mesh doesn't filter as well. However, ask yourself how serious an issue this is. Do you actually drive your 6 banger enough that engine wear out in your lifetime is a real possibility? I don't.

Jim

[Bruce B.]

Re: Air cleaner elements for sidedrafts carbs in a '54?

If you want to make your own filters using foam designed specifically for the air filter application here is some:
It can be purchased from www.pegasusautoracing.com
Universal Air Filter Foam Sheet

In addition to hundreds of different application-specific and universal air filters from K&N, ITG, Ramair, and Pipercross, we also offer air filter foam in bulk sheets. Make your own air filter or simply replace the foam in a worn-out filter. With three different foams to choose from, you can make a filter to suit any application. You can even make a three-stage filter for the ultimate filtration!


1265-201
Air Filter Foam Sheet, Green (65 PPI Fine), 12 x 16 x 5/8
$13.99 In Stock 1265-202
Air Filter Foam Sheet, Red (40 PPI Medium), 12 x 16 x 3/8
$13.99 In Stock 1265-203
Air Filter Foam Sheet, Black (30 PPI Coarse), 12 x 24 x 3/8
$13.99 In Stock