Air filter fitment issue

faid2black · 07-02-2007, 09:02 AM

hey guys,

just last week, i ordered a mann air filter (13-72-1-744-869-M63) from pelican for my 2000 323i and planned on installing it this weekend. Well, i thought it was going to be a 2 minute job, but it wasn't. The filter (rubber part on the edge) appears to be about 1/4" longer and wider, thus keeping the lid from closing correctly. I spent an hour trying to push the edges in, trying to get it to close, but there was just no way that it was going to happen. This cannot be normal, and i was wondering if this has happened to anyone else. Also was wondering if this could be returned even tho i dirtied it up trying to install?

thanks

-andrew

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

That should be the correct part number. Are you just having trouble getting it installed or is it a different size than the old one?

The E46 filter box is a PITA. I suggest removing the entire filter box. It takes about 1 minutes and you only need a 10mm-ish socket and a flat head screwdriver. You can then install the filter in the box out side the car so that you can be sure it is clamped correctly.

If there was ever a K&N filter installed then there is a K&N gasket inside the top of the box that can be removed.

faid2black · 07-02-2007, 01:57 PM

only oem filters were used on the car (bought it from my aunt and she only took it to bmw). When comparing the existing filter to the new one, the top, outside rubber part is about 0.2" wider and longer. the filter itself sits perfectly. Sorry if i didn't make that clear earlier. I removed everything from box (didn't take the box out though) and had a pretty clear view of everything. It all boiled down to the lid not closing because the rubber was in the way. I tried lining it up and pushing in the excess with a screwdriver, but nothing would help. The one that was previously in drops in and the lid closes easily. i guess i could take the box out, but i just don't see that changing my luck. any other suggestions?

and yes, the box is one PITA haha

thanks again

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

I'd try taking the box out it will make it much easier. If you cant get it to fit with the box out then it will not fit.

I'm very surprised that the filter gasket could be too fat to fit but think I have seen some variation in those molded gaskets between manufacturers in all the cars I had.

faid2black · 07-02-2007, 02:08 PM

okay, i'll give that a shot

thanks for the help =)

faid2black · 07-02-2007, 02:46 PM

so i gave it a shot, and it just will not fit

I've placed multiple orders with Pelican Parts and you guys have been flawless, but i think there may have been a mistake here.

i really don't understand, and after searching around some other forums, i really think even though the part no.'s match, i received the wrong size. I'm wondering if i can return this and get the Mahle filter instead of the Mann (as i really don't want to go through this again). Please email me at faid2black@gmail.com so we can discuss this.

thanks

-andrew

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

You should call.

grafhky52 · 07-03-2007, 12:47 PM

FOR ALL THIS HASTLE YOU SHOUD JUST GET ONE FROM THE DEALER. IT WILL FIT

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

Buying local does have the luxury of easily returning the wrong part whether its due to the wrong part number or the wrong part in box. Everything is a trade off.

faid2black · 07-05-2007, 07:48 AM

ok gave it one more try with the box out of the car and this time, with two sets of hands, we got the filter in =) I actually feel a nice difference in my idle now =)

thanks for all ur help jeron

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

I still think there is something wrong because it should fit easily with the box out. As long as the filter media doesn't tear then you will be fine though.