Words: Chad Antonio
Photos: Julius Mayo, Jr.
Tech: Jon Walsh
A very common modification amongst all
car enthusiasts is changing the way the motor breathes.
From a simple change of the filter in the factory air
box to installing individual throttle bodies, these
are just two examples of the many different ways to
alter the way air is introduced into a car. There are
also some interesting products such as the Tornado,
and the front-mounted intake simulating an intercooler.
You could also fabricate your own type of air intake,
using dryer duct hose or PVC piping. These changes share
one thing in common, removing the restrictions that
impede air flow. Jade Motorsports recommends that you
leave it to the professionals who take the time in R&D
to create products that give true performance gains.
That is why Kevin opted for the Fujita cold air intake
for his new project car, a 2007 Honda Fit. Our resident
team mechanic, Jon Walsh, Honda Certified Tech helps
us out with the install.
STEP 1: First Look
Underneath the carbon fiber hood of Kevin's JDM influenced
Honda Fit, is a puny 1.5L VTEC K-motor in it's raw untouched
glory. Nothing has been done yet to the motor that could
possibly affect the warranty of this new car. However,
we knows that the installation of the Fujita Cold Air
Intake will improve efficiency of air flow, allowing
the motor to produce more power to the wheels. Giving
the car some pep, just short of creating a micro-monster!
STEP 2: Removing
the Factory AirBox
From the factory, the air intake system is made from
cheap material which is mostly plastic. It also has
a number of snorkels which reduce engine noise, creating
a quiet car that pleases your grandma in the back seat.
This Fujita intake is made from a single piece of a
high grade polished metal. The design improves engine
performance and gives the motor a growl, loud enough
to make anyone smile when running at wide open throttle
with VTEC in full gear. Jon makes quick work of the
install by first opening the airbox and removing the
restrictive OEM air filter. Then with the proper hand
tools, he disconnects the air sensors, vacuum lines,
and unscrews the airbox so that she can pull it out
of the car.
STEP 3: Fitting
the Piping
 Fujita
has different applications of their air intake systems
for many makes and models. The design of the intake
shows that Fujita did their homework because this cold
air intake 'Fit' like a glove between the motor, battery,
and the surrounding engine components. Just a few mandrel
bends makes a connection from the throttle body to where
the air filter will sit behind the front bumper. Jon
takes the supplied hardware to attach the intake to
factory bolt spots. He used a silicone coupler to connect
the intake to the throttle body. Another nice feature
with Fujita intakes are custom fabricated mounts to
bolt on the factory air sensors.
STEP 4: Adding
the Air Filter
Cold air intakes are designed to have the air filter
sit low underneath the heat coming from the motor, usually
right behind the front bumper. The location is a constant
supply of fresh cool air which ultimately powers the
car. The major drawback to this is the risk of hydrolocking
the motor. The Fujita air filter comes pre-oiled, but
any water puddle is dangerous and should be avoided
when driving. Removing the front bumper isn't necessary
because you can install the air filter from underneath
the car. Jon had access to a lift, but a floor jack
can be used to position the air filter. Once underneath,
hhe pulled back the splash guard and attached the filter
to the Fujita pipe using another supplied silicone coupler
with circle clamps.
STEP 5: Double
Check
 With
everything installed, it's always a good idea to double
check the complete installation before starting the
car. Jon rechecks his work. The silicone couplers on
the throttle body and the air filter should be secured
with the provided circle clamps. The air sensors positioned
onto the mounting spot and vacuum lines connected properly,
to prevent a CEL due to an air leak or running an improper
air/fuel ratio. Lastly, tightening the bolts which hold
the intake in place and keeps it stable, especially
when driving hard. One last final detail, some Meguiar's
NXT metal polish cleans up Kevin's Fujita pipe making
him one happy Honda Fit owner.
This intake installation would work for
the majority of vehicle applications from Fujita. If
further help is needed, detailed instructions are provided
with each system. For more information, visit Fujita's
website at www.f5air.com.
Special thanks going out to Julius Mayo,
Jr. for the pictures, and the Infamous Jon for his help
in other things.
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