Removing air filter/airbox without taking out the strut bar

[Roodosutaa]

Hi all, as the title says - can this be done?

Got me a BMC drop in panel filter but knowing what a pain in the arsch installing the Forge strut bar had been (bolt holes not aligning, worries about stripping the bolts etc), if I could avoid removing the bar I would. Just wondering if anyone has experience?

Thanks

[RoSonic]

With the Seat strut bar you can change the air filter without removing the bar. So if the forge one has the same shape it can be done.

[Blitzen]

Hahahaha...Good luck mate...I have tried and failed, only to reach for a 3/8 drive 13mm socket, extension, and ratchet...

[Roodosutaa]

Went out and had a fiddle.

Alright, weekend job it is. Grrrh...

I lament the old MX5 days when there was ample room under the bonnet despite the stock strut bar...

[Roodosutaa]

Got it sorted. Undid the bolts on the airbox side, loosened (but not undid) the bolts on the other side and just lifted the bar up enough for the airbox lid to clear. Easy as piss. I have a feeling these bolts aren't designed to be screwed in and out regularly though and was worried they'd seize. Maybe I should get new bolts each time.

Had no idea the stock paper filter was that chunky though. Popped the BMC one in.

Initial impression: even driving sensibly the car seems to pull more cleanly off the line, doesn't feel as bogged down or doesn't seem to need as much throttle to move from standstill, can't feel much difference gunning it though.