Airbox Torx screws - all 5 vital?

[RykuZ0]

Hi guys, after attempting the airbox mod last weekend on my new car, but having to give up as my cheapo tool kit only went up to torx size 20 (25 required) I have just finished doing it.

Being a ham-fisted oaf, I managed to drop 2 out of the 5 torx screws into the engine bay , where they were promptly caught by the metal tray in the bottom. So after a spot of lurching forwards and backwards then jamming on the brakes in an attempt to dislodge them it seems they are there to stay. . Balls.

So my question is, are they vital? I presume they are, so if anyone can tell me what size/spec they are so I can replace them I would be more than grateful. In the meantime I have left the two hard to get at screws in place, along with the one on the left hand side, leaving two missing, top left and middle right, as shown in pic. Should I re-arrange them for now, or is this ok as a temporary measure?

Thanks for your help.

[Caterman]

How the hell did you loose them They don't need to be unscrewed out all the way and they stay in place in the airbox lid

A trip to the stealers or a breakers yard for you m8

[RykuZ0]

I know, I know. Feel like a right ****, it's what happens when you have a cursory glance at the how-to then go steaming in without the proper preparation!! Story of my life....

[Jim Bob]

OT slightly, but does the airbox mod make much difference? (i've got a 2.2direct)

Is that all you have to do - take that plastic bit off from inside?

[VauxVeteran]

They will be in the wheel arch, I did the same changing an air filter, hth.

[Ste]

I wouldn't worry too much about 2 missing. Aren't there spring clips as well??

[RykuZ0]

Couldn't tell you, Dr Direct, as any extra air that comes into my airbox as a result of the mod will be quickly leaking out via the two missing screws!! Maybe someone who didn't fudge it up could tell you?!!

But otherwise, yes, all you do is remove the plastic bit. You will notice that one half of your filter will be clean due to the overly funneled air - see the picture of mine (looks a bit grubby for a vehicle that was serviced 4 months ago. Shouldn't this have been changed?). Not to worry, I'll be replacing it with the K&N one come payday anyway. Might have found the screws by then too!!

[Jim Bob]

Interesting!

Will the K&N affect fuel comsumption? And will it make that induction roar noise??

Might get one if the fuel usage doesn't go through the roof!

[dazzer t]

did mine on friday mate took all screws out but i put mine on top of the oil filler cap so i didnt loose them. cant see there being a problem if you are missing one on the box just keep your eyes peeled the next time you are in the scrappers and pick a couple up.

[Coastie]

Interesting!

Will the K&N affect fuel comsumption? And will it make that induction roar noise??

Might get one if the fuel usage doesn't go through the roof!

Dr Direct - I was wondering the same thing, considering it delivers air to the engine with less effort (even more so with the air box mods Ive seen done) it should almost use less fuel .....

Anyone have the answer..... (sorry kinda hijacking the topic) ???????