[randap]

Does anyone know if an aftermarket induction kit with the cone air filter would reduce the risk of water ingestion over the OE design?

I'm looking for something to put my mind at rest, since MINI have not, and I really don't want a 3rd engine.....

[randap]

Bump...

Thoughts:

The aftermarket kits replace the airbox, so the air intake is further in the engine bay, and not in the direct airflow throught the grill.

The felt / paper filter in a cone kit would probably reduce the risk of significant water ingestion.

The above makes me think that an aftermarket kit (K&N, Pipercross etc) would reduce the risk. What does anyone else think?

I think (can't prove) my ingestion scenario was as a result of a long time driving through v.heavy rain (approx 5 hrs) which slowly built up water in the airbox (not checked design to be sure), so that when I went through 3inches of standing water, the splashing tipped the water quantity in the airbox over the edge resulting in the split engine cases.....can't think of any other explanation, but if the above was the case, then removing the airbox might prevent future occurance(s)???

[randap]

BUMP..

Surely someone has an opinion????

[m1les]

I had the same thoughts and concerns, I took it up with our dealer who said there has been very few reports of this happening. He also said that if you change to an aftermarket kit, the insurance may not cover any water ingress damage.

Looking at the pictures of the intake box, there appears to be a resonator unit at the base of the box but no drain. Surely there must be a drain off somewhere or maybe it relies on evaporation. Anybody know?