The
conversion, basically for 156s of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 capacity,
involves substituting the standard air induction pipe for
a larger version and adding a K & N high-flow air filter
especially designed to increase bhp. The new induction pipe,
being considerably larger, increases the ram effect of incoming
cold air while the filter offer virtually unrestricted airflow
while maintaining filtration levels critical to ensure long
engine life. Although the cost of the filter is four times
that of the standard component it is worth bearing in mind
they never need to be replaced. It is quite a simple conversion
but one that is worthwhile carrying out, however it should
be pointed out that this is an entry level, low cost, tweak
with the family man in mind and not a full blow fast road
conversion---if you want more please look at SUSPENSION
IMPROVEMENTS and TUNING or the 156
page.
To anyone fitting this modification it will become apparent
how low down the air intake is situated on the 156, if anything
rather too near the road! A few days ago we supplied engine
parts for a 156 that had hit a pool of standing water of
which a quantity had entered the air intake bending two
connecting rods—the fact that the engine re-started,
albeit somewhat unevenly, is a credit to Alfa engineering.
Even so, an expensive rebuild was required so let this be
a warning---watch out for those puddles! Should this warning
arrive too late then we will gladly help you save money
with the ensuing engine rebuild!
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