knyg

So the oem intake box has a filter on the top of the box. Do I need it or can I break it off and throw it away? It's kinda riveted on.

I have a k&n filter that's in the box. Do I really the other filter too?

reason: it's dirty and i don't want to restrict more air flow if I already have a filter

bbaugher47

Can you post a picture ? I am not sure that I have the same setup.

MikeFig82

iTrader: (13)

Charcoal filter? I removed mine about 1 1/2 years ago. No issues.

knyg

mandyfig

That is weird, I have to check mine! I do have the K&N as well, but never noticed this additional filter. I will post a pic of mine.

mandyfig

And if it can be removed, I will remove it as well.

bbaugher47

Ohhhhhh. I never noticed that when I put my takeda on. Thanks for the pic. I was picturing some awkward filter some where in the factory intake tube.

knyg

So with some further research that I found on other forums, mainly Mazda

it has been said that...

1 - it's an additional filter, in case you forgot to put the other filter on

2 - it prevents emissions from coming back from the throttle when car is idle

3 - it stablizes the air coming through so it's not so harsh/rough


im not sure if I believe anything they said because they are all other people's opinions.

What I am going to do: I am removing this "filter" so that it doesn't restrict my air flow since I already have a fine mesh k&n filter.

Possible cons that I can foresee: your intake is getting more air flow so your throttle sensor might be off, a easy timing/tune up will fix it or you'll just run more lean and the excess air when shoot out your exhaust and make a cool popping sounds 🤣


do what you want to your car and follow your own opinion about this but don't blame me if **** goes wrong 🙃

jdmSW20

iTrader: (12)

sounds like what you are talking about is the carbon filter, if so, its there for a purpose. the ISF has one as well, it doesn't restrict airflow, taking it out doesn't really offer any performance gain either. but ultimately its your car, so go with what you see best

mandyfig

Sorry to hijack this thread but I saw the Strut bars. which is the best strut bar to use and does it add rigidity?

I have one on my SC and it helps.

knyg

what strut bar? /s/


I have the cusco strut for the Lexus IS. I went with it because cusco is a good Japanese brand. In my opinion, the bar really stabilizes the front struts and wheels. My car feels sturdier and more stable on turns.

There are many brands but I trust cusco the most for the strut bar.

There rarely is a "best brand" for car parts. Mainly just preference. Besides obvious quality vs ****ty ebay parts

mandyfig

Does your IS Cusco Strut bar rub on the underneath of the hood?

knyg

Good question. I actually never checked. But when I close my hood, it doesn't hit anything and closes like it typically should.

This strut was made to fit the 2IS and some other cars. Cusco labeled it as fitted for 2IS so I doubt it has any fitment issues

mandyfig

Where did you buy the Cusco bar?

WylieKylie

iTrader: (2)

These cars don't have struts, stiffening the shock towers by tying them together with a "strut bar" does very little for suspension performance.