Install took me about 1/2 hour. I already had the IC pipes off and the AIC air cleaner removed. It helped to have all that extra space free for the install.
This was a one skinned knuckle job, really easy. Think one bannana. I dropped the CCV hose adapter bolt a couple of times and it falls under the UVC harness connector. I nicked my knuckle trying to fish the bolt out under the bracket.
I think that with average skills and tools, it would take you an extra ten minutes to remove everything. It actually took me longer to upload the pics and write this up!
Like is said, overall, the unit and the bracket are REALLY well made and well engineered. The fit and finish is as good, if not better than stock parts. I am satisfied with the value of the unit so far. The proof will be in the long term performance of the unit in extracting the oil out of the airstream.
As far as maintenance goes, the rotary cam action of the filter housing holder is TIGHT! it will be a pain to operate it with all the stuff in the way. You pretty much have to remove the air cleaner to get good access. Not sure if its the cover only, or the whole housing, but you have to get your hands in there and maybe a small prybar or large screwdriver to open the lever.
After installing the filter housing, I found it was helpful to tip up and rotate the turbo inlet pipe to sneak by the filter housing in the proper orientation. Once its in there, the hose clears the filter with no problem.
You can clearly see the red indicator on the right of the filter housing. It pops out when the filter is in need of service, so pay attention where it is when new. The indicator should be evaluated at IDLE.
Again, these are clickable thumbnails for your viewing pleasure.
In the first few pictures, you can see the oil accumulation in the IC turbo boots and AIC to turbo pipe. This is why I wanted the filter installed.
The next few are of the stock breather filter. It appears to have some sort of stainless steel wool in the PCV cover. Its surprisingly heavy for its size.
The RACOR installation sheet is really well done. The documentation is good. I did not take pictures of ALL the steps, just the ones that are missing from the install sheets. Really more pictures to try and give folks an idea of the unit placement and clearances.
My only gripe is that the new rubber hose is about 1/4" short of reaching the filter outlet. It puts a bit of a bend in the hoses, but not excessive. I left the hose clamps loose to install it all and then tightened them up once I was satisfied with the hose positions.
I can't either, and YES.. a very good write up.
