With the k&n air filter, does the side that has the indent face the engine or where the air comes in? instructions don't indicate which way and i can fit it in either way and close the clamps but can't tell if its right or not. I'm figuring it out as i make this thread so quick replies would be great. Tried searching too, no help

 

Do you remember which way the stock one came out? They have the same shape.

I want to say the wider side was on the left, but Its been 2 months since I installed mine so I cant say for certain.

 

Ya i think it was the wider side faced the engine, so I'm assuming it would be the same with the k&n? I tried both ways with the filter and they both fit in there so thats when i got stuck. lol.
You know how I can tell when its secured on? I noticed when I did it the first time with the wider side facing the engine there was a gap between the filter and the plastic air box facing the engine, is that how its supposed to be?

 

I think I got it on, with the wide side facing the engine. a little piece of plastic off the filter broke off while i was trying to wiggle it in there. feels pretty secured with the clamps closed. haven't started the car yet

 

Ok guys, getting that filter in can be a pain in the ****. There are two tabs which line the bottom of the housing and come apart to make room when switching filters. Its really important that you make sure those tabs are lined up when replacing the filter. Once the filter is in and snug, once you clip the top, if you look down to the bottom right hand side if there is a gap there then the tab closest to you is not clipped properly. Leaving your intake like that can cause issues so make sure you check that. There is a How to on here somewhere, not sure if its for the X or the Ralliart, but it will walk you through everything I just said but with pictures.

 

If you look at the filter closely, you'll notice that there is a "soft side" to the K&N filter, kind of like a gasket. IIRC, that's the larger side. The other side is all hard plastic. You'll want the soft side facing the engine to get a good seal to prevent unfiltered air from entering the intake system.