I just fitted my 1996 C36 AMG with a new ASB cone shaped racing filter which sits right next to the engine, completly by-passing the factory air box. Even though I have slightly more power at higher RPM's, I have lost off-the-line torque, and am concerned about how hot the filter gets. Does the factory air box/rectangular filter set up create some kind of special air flow or pressure to the engine I should know about?
Should I put a rectangular filter back into the box the way it is from the factory, or customize it by completly removing the box and extending the cone filter where more cold air can blow. And if I did 'customize' it, would this make any significant difference in my power/performance.

Thanks for your input

 

i would add on extra piping to go into the bumper/fog light area. This is much colder air and then your intake isnt sucking in hot engine. You could also build a heat sheild out of metal. If your just sucking in hot air, your better off with stock air box. After hours of driving the heat soak will slow down your car more

 

Beware ! Cotton gauze/oil type filters have been known to cause premature mass air flow meter failures ($$$)