Well, the stock filter is all plumbed in now. To be honest, it does not seem to have much difference as the flap inside the intake snout does not seem to be working I did try sucking on the pipe before installation (ooer) and it seemed OK, but when I started the engine from cold, the flap stayed open. The bus is being serviced/checked over tomorrow by a local VW mechanic who comes highly recommended so maybe he can shed some light. Anyhow, here is a pic of the filter in place. Anyone thinking of doing this and wants to ask a question, feel free. I can help in terms of what I needed to get etc. though I cannot help if your flap does not work
Did the flap move when you sucked on the tube? Sometimes the metal operating rod corrodes and snaps on them
Nearly there - looking good. Logical approach required : Pull the pipe off the flap bit and see if there's a vacuum. If yes the vacuum switch broken. If no, pull pipe from manifold off the filter and check for vacuum. If yes the thermostatic valve bust/stuck. If no, pull the pipe off the inlet manifold and check for manifold vacuum. - there won't be any if there wasn't any at the other end of the pipe, so the spur on the manifold is blocked - possibly optional to drill it through and never done.
I could not suck hard enough ! but I pushed metal rod inwards and help my thumb over the hose end. The rod stayed where it was so I figure there was no leaks. Cheers Zed, that was what was in my own mind but as it is persisting down now and the guy tomorrow has a nice warm workshop, i'm gonna wait till tomorrow Thanks to both of you for your input.
