You're right, it doesn't have a gasket. I didn't really see this as a problem because it seems to fit pretty snug when you close the clamps.

 

Yeah, I just installed the HKS this past week and even though it doesn't have a gasket I'm not worried at all. If the filter didn't seat tight in the airbox the car would run like $hit.

 

I doubt it would run any differently, but if it leaked it would certainly not be filtering as well.

 

The factory filter has a rubber gasket on it to so............... Plastic to plastic doesn't make an air tight seal. Maybe drop a few more dollars and pick up the cosworth.

 

I had to chime in, the JDM Ralliart filter has the rubber gasket .

 

I am going to get the Cosworth and see the difference between the two. That lack of a rubber gasket is something I cannot ignore. I am sorry but a rubber gasket always makes a better seal than without.

I keep you all posted on my results, which will be within two week, heh.

 

On Page 3, the poster "Electronics" mentioned they reset the ECU between testing the Cosworth and HKS filter.

Is that necessary when putting in a new filter? Sorry for the noob question.

 

Yes, you are correct but as finiky as the cars of today are just a small gap/leak between the filter and the airbox would make the car run differently (for the worst). If it is sucking air past the HKS filter it is extremely minimal. Whatever you guys are more comfortable running I'm not trying to discourage you. I treat my car like my baby and want to give it what's best for it. I just didn't let the HKS not having a gasket keep me from using their filter.

 

If it's leaking in the air box, it shouldn't affect the MAF thus the car can self-tune for it. The risk would be sucking in pollen, dust, etc. and prematurely dirtying the oil.

 

be safe and make sure you've got a rubber!... gasket that is...

i just installed the cosworth one on my ra, and i can't really tell a difference in sound. which, i have to admit, i'm kinda disappointed about. i was hoping for at least a little more noise.

oh well. it seems to be a very nice filter, and was a good investment, i think.

 

i will be ordering the Cosworth one of these days. i'd prefer to stay away from oiled filters because risking mucking up the MAF sensor isn't something i want to deal with right now. this happened on my previous car.

in addition, the lack of a gasket on the HKS isn't something i'm willing to ignore. i know running-wise a small leak isn't a big issue. however, i want to avoid small debris passing.

although i was looking for the sound/gains of the HKS, i think Cosworth is my choice. i'll let you know how it works out.

 

is the ralliart art filter oiled or non oiled?

 

Non-oiled.

 

i would have jumped on this in a heartbeat if the price wasn't so steep.

i gotta pay for my splitter, shorty antenna, and bulbs.

 

Yah, I'm a JDM *****