the 2019 RKS models are coming with this hole closed, the 107 is open, what's the difference? ,

 

 

why they changed assuming 'just that' is a great question...wonder if they like the fact it concentrates the velocity of incoming air lower to swirl around the enclosure? seems the forward facing element getting the direct rush of air would be good, or maybe it is to keep the forward facing part of the AF from getting wetter and dirtier faster? digging deep on that but other than that, I got nuthin'...

 

That's interesting, huh?

 

My guess is its merely a cost saving, not a performance advantage for the stock filter application. Gives folks more incentive to go stage I

 

I bought the kn 1717 and did not expect this hole closed! Is it a functional modification or should I open a hole?

 

if you are leaving your engine stock just leave it as is..believe it or not they design and test these things and it works sufficiently for stock

 

 

my opinion is the OEM provides all the stock engine and tune requires..don't always need a stick of dynamite when an M80 will do the job just fine..but you could spend the money, it has advantages of being more reusable but I also contend it will allow more fine, gritty, sandy sediment pass through into the engine which is the enemy..in real world practical application does it matter much, probably not being enclosed..I also called K&N early on with my M8 and they said they recommend retuning if adding their OEM replacement along with freer flowing mufflers

 

I bought the kn1717 and V & H Eliminator 400 tips, I'm out of action now.