I just installed a PFS intake and SMIC, and noticed (after the fact) that the air pump is unfiltered--only the two large turbo hoses are filtered. I'd prefer to keep the air pump for the time being as I am in CA, so ideally I would preserve its lifespan. Is it problematic that the air pump is unfiltered? What have other PFS intake owners done, or did you just not worry about it?

I'm concerned I need to get some sort of filter on it so I don't kill my (expensive) pump.

 

Just put on a dedicated filter for the air pump. I used something similar to...

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/vpe-2168

Only problem was getting it to fit. I cut a piece of heater hose that fit over the air pump pipe which then provided enough diameter for the filter to fit snug

 

^I did the same thing. Different part but same logic.

 

That was my first idea, but I don't like that it would be sucking in hot engine bay air. Ultimately I think I will use one of these to t off of the coupler going to the 90* elbow. That way it is filtered and should be a bit cooler than engine bay air.

 

Don't think the air pump cares about temps

 

Yeah, it won't matter what temperature it is. Plus, it's a small amount of air in comparison to what the turbos are ingesting. So bottom line is throw a little filter on it and try not to worry about it.

 

Why not go down to your local lawnmower shop an buy a piece of air filter foam. A couple daubs of silicone to keep it in place inside the PFS box over the port? Clean or replace as needed.

 

3rd Generation RX7 TSBs

#25

I thought about putting a little filter inside the box itself, that is plan B.

 

From that link:

25. AIR PUMP FAILURE DUE TO INSTALLATION OF
NON-GENUINE AIR CLEANERS

Applicable Models: 1993-95 RX-7
Bulletin No. 006/95
Issued: 4/5/95

Installing non-genuine air cleaners may lead to air pump failure. Unlike
the original design, non-genuine air cleaners draw heated, engine compartment
air into the air pump. This air increases pump temperature which may result
in lubrication loss and bearing failure. Customers should be informed that
the vehicle warranty prohibits alteration of the emission control system as
well as other components. Recommend that the customer have the original air
cleaner installed to prevent non-warrantable component failure.

 

Where did you purchase the pfs SMIC if you don't mind me asking? I've been looking but can't find one.

 

They aren't made anymore. And IIRC the later designs did away with the cast inlet and outlet in favor of tubing. They come up occasionally in the Parts For Sale section... IMO you should look for the complete set in the earlier design RX7Club.com - Search Results

 

I've been considering selling mine as I'm upgrading to a larger core when I go single turbo. PM me if you're really looking for one.