The MGB GT V8 air filter housing is a V8-specific assembly sized to suit the rear-mounted twin SU HIF6 carburettors. The housing draws air from the engine bay and feeds both carburettors through a single combined assembly, rather than the individual filters fitted to many other twin-carburettor installations. The arrangement is dictated by the V8's restricted under-bonnet packaging and the rear position of the carburettors against the bulkhead.
Air Filter Element
The standard filter element is a paper-pleated cylindrical or panel item, depending on the housing pattern. The element traps dust and airborne contaminants before they reach the carburettors and engine. It is a service item that should be replaced at routine intervals, running with a clogged element causes a richening of the fuel mixture as airflow is restricted, with corresponding poor running, increased fuel consumption and potential cylinder bore wear from over-rich combustion.
Housing and Mounting
The housing itself is a metal pressing with rubber sealing rings between the housing and the carburettor inlets. Mounting hardware secures the housing to the carburettor bodies. The seal between housing and carburettor is critical, any leak at this point allows unfiltered air directly into the engine and is a frequent cause of bore wear on cars run for long periods with deteriorated seals.
Service Notes
The air filter element should be inspected regularly and replaced before it becomes visibly dirty. Tapping out loose dust will extend the life of an element somewhat, but paper elements are not washable and should not be cleaned with solvents or compressed air, which can damage the filter media.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies V8-specific air filter housings, paper element renewals, sealing rings and all mounting hardware for the MGB GT V8.