W211 320cdi air intake question

[jonviola]

Hi

Just upgraded from w210 320cdi to a w211 320cdi. I notice that the air intake in the newer car has a fixed plastic flap in front of the air intake trumpet next to the radiator. Does anyone know what purpose this serves? It would seem to me that this is reducing the ram air effect thus reducing power and economy although induction noise maybe reduced. Has anyone any experience of removing this?

I may of course be completely wrong!!!

 

[bigtwin]

Makes bugger all difference to ram air, as you're not getting much air pressure in there in any event on account of location of intake, the major force is suction.

It's probably for tumble - making sure there is mixed air going in, and possibly making sure liquid splash is blocked.

 

[alexanderfoti]

Also the air intake is taken from behind the radiator, which is a low pressure area. As above, most likely to increase the turbulence of the air.