Walker Airsep Installed (Great Cust. Service!)

[Scooby]

I recieved my newly redesigned Airsep the other day and waited for an oil change interval to install it. Looking at the instructions, the system would seem pretty straightforward to install: I assumed about an hour or two. Well, we all know what happens when you ASSUME - eh?



There was some interpretation to be done of the instructions and a minor part was left out, but I have to say that I called Walker Engineering a few times and was very impressed with their customer service! They asked for feedback and said they would change the instructions to be more clear - Wow!



But wait! Here's the best part: After I struggled for hours - (literally, including calls back to Walker) with the new drain hose that is supposed to be a press fit into the engine block - I was getting ticked-off. To my suprise, Walker Engineering went beyond the call of duty and sent the designer/installer out - immediately to see what the issue was! Craig was great and was noting ways to improve the kit to make it more user friendly to us self-installers.



The unit is installed and works well so far (overnight, sitting in the driveway But I have to say that the kind of service and commitment that Walker showed me was truly impressive. The are working for our business and I'd recommend them as a vendor to anyone on this site.



Installed, the system looks well made and the finishes (powdercoating) are excellent!

 

[Ed Sigman]

Hello Scooby,



I have a couple of questions for you after reading the Walker site about the Airsep. Does the device lower EGT's? Does the device enhance fuel mileage?



It really appears that this is aimed at engine longevity with less pressures and more efficient use of the turbo system.



Additional thoughts: does this device have any impact upon the use of a boost elbow and boost module to enhance turbo performance? And, is there any conflict in using this device in tandem with a power box such as a VA or EZ?



I would appreciate your sharing your experience and knowledge with this.



thanks,



Ed

 

[Mundgyver]

I'm thinking about buying one of these, but I have the same questions everyone else does. Does it affect performance with regard to restricting airflow to the turbo and what does it do to the warranty, if anything? I like the idea of keeping the oil in the engin and not in the air. Do you have a pics of the frustrating parts and what was you reason for buying it?

 

[Scooby]

Ed and Mund,



The unit is essentially passive meaning there are no moving parts or electronics involved in the installation. I need to update my signature because I have a complete Banks PowerPack installed (which includes wastegate modifications and a computer module) that have no conflict with the Walker Airsep at all.



I don't see the unit restricting airflow - other than the length of the tube from the air-filter to the turbo is slightly longer than stock - but then the new tube is rigid and smooth inside compared to the stock flexible tube which has the ridges inside. I haven't noticed a reduction in EGTs, but then I haven't really been looking for (nor expecting) one either.



I wanted to keep the oil inside the truck, hated the smell after an oil change and despised the oily mess all over the engine as well. This has solved all of those problems. I like the added advantage of reducing crank-case pressure and extending the life of the seals and engine. Some folks are extending the blow-by tube out to the rear of the truck which keeps the engine compartment cleaner, but doesn't address the leaking.



I've only had it on for half a tank of fuel - I don't really expect to see a significant increase in mileage, but I'll report back if I do! (I tend to put my foot in it after putting that Banks Kit on - yet I still manage a good 19-20 mpg mixed driving)



Oh, I don't have a picture of the "frustrating part", but was assured by Craig that they would address it to make it more friendly to install... Basically it is the steel oil drain tube that you would see if you removed the oil filter. The tube is roughly 4" long and has a 70 degree bend or so. It sticks into the engine block and is then joined to the turbo oil drain line with a short piece of tubing and two worm-clamps.

 

[Mundgyver]

Did you have to modify anything with the air cleaner. Looks like this will be a go for me as soon as I can afford one. I like the idea of not having oil residue all over the engine compartment or the front of the engine. Thanks for the info. -Wally-

 

[Scooby]

Wally,



No mods to the air-cleaner are needed... . just some patience! It can be a little time consuming trying to get the rubber hose connector on to the air cleaner box (its just a snug fit).



Otherwise it is pretty straight forward. Have fun and let me know if you have any questions I can answer when you are doing your install... . (but if it's during CA business hours, try Walker first as they are there to help and earn our business!)

 

[Shelby Griggs]

I have seriously thought about this product, and it may eventually be needed as that may be the only way to contain my oil on steep downgrades. I use my truck for my surveying business, and do go off road at times. So far no problems, but I have not encountered any steep slopes yet, either.



Looking forward to longer term reports from you and other users. My biggest concern is that it might not separate out all of the oil, thus coating turbo, inter cooler and all downstream plumbing. That would be nasty.



Shelby

 

[Scooby]

I'm glad you reminded me about that - that was another bonus: no oil dumping out of the engine if you go down a grade more than 17 degrees! I was told by the guy that developed the system that he put the back end of his Dodge(with the engine running) on a forklift and lifted it like 6 feet - no problem.



The filter in the airsep will need to be replaced every 50K miles or so from what I understand. Basically you are replacing the airsep unit as the filter is non-removable. And that starts to get expensive if you rack up the miles - like $90 per time.