Mr Gasket Air Cleaner

Getting the Most Out of Your Engine with a High-Performance Air Intake System

An engine’s air intake system plays a crucial role in providing optimal power, acceleration and efficiency. The air cleaner is one of the most important components of the intake system, filtering out dirt, dust and debris before the air enters the engine. Upgrading to a high-flow air cleaner like those offered by Mr Gasket can provide noticeable improvements in engine performance.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Mr Gasket air cleaners – from materials and construction to compatibility, sizing, durability and much more. You’ll learn key factors in choosing the right Mr Gasket air cleaner for your vehicle and engine. Whether you’re looking to increase horsepower, improve throttle response or simply keep your engine running in peak condition, read on for an in-depth look at these powerful performance upgrades.

Overview of Mr Gasket Air Cleaners

Founded in 1965, Mr Gasket is one of the most trusted names in high-performance parts and accessories. The company offers a wide range of air cleaners engineered for increased airflow and filtration. From chrome and stainless steel to cotton gauze filter media, you can find a Mr Gasket air cleaner ideal for your vehicle and performance goals.

Key features of Mr Gasket air cleaners include:

• High-flow cotton gauze filter media or optional oiled foam filter element
• Durable and corrosion-resistant materials
• Bold Mr Gasket logo branding
• CARB EO number – approved for street legal vehicles
• Customizable with additional intake components
• Easy bolt-on installation
• Available in 14′′ and 16′′ sizes
• Backed by a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty

With the superior filtration of high-flow cotton gauze or oiled foam, Mr Gasket air cleaners allow your engine to breathe easier while keeping harmful particles out of the combustion chamber. This increases air volume for more power under the curve. The durable one-piece housing is constructed from aluminum, steel or chromed steel to resist corrosion and keep the filter secure.

Key Benefits of a Mr Gasket Air Cleaner Upgrade

Installing a Mr Gasket performance air cleaner offers some excellent benefits that you’ll notice right away:

• Increased engine power – More airflow means more oxygen for bigger combustion and higher cylinder pressures. You’ll feel a noticeable power gain across the RPM range.
• Improved throttle response – The engine can react quicker thanks to reduced intake restriction. Throttle response feels sharper with the high-flowing air cleaner.
• Enhanced filtration – Mr Gasket air cleaners feature a large surface area cotton gauze or foam filter media that traps more dust and dirt particles, keeping your engine running cleanly.
• Bold visual appeal – From high-polish chrome to polished aluminum, Mr Gasket air cleaners add eye-catching style under the hood. Custom Mr Gasket logos stand out proudly.
• Easy to service – The one-piece housing allows quick access for cleaning or replacing the filter element when needed.
• CARB legal – Mr Gasket air cleaners have CARB EO numbers, making them legal for use on emission-controlled street vehicles. No hassle with annual certification.
• Builder-friendly design – Air cleaners can be combined with other intake components like stacks, scoops and filters for a custom intake system.

For classic muscle cars, hot rods, trucks and more, a Mr Gasket air cleaner is a simple yet highly effective upgrade that makes an audible and tangible difference in performance. The increased engine breathing allows powerplants to really come alive.

What to Consider When Choosing a Mr Gasket Air Cleaner

With a range of styles and designs available, selecting the right Mr Gasket air cleaner requires considering a few key factors:

• Vehicle fitment – Mr Gasket air cleaners are available for popular American V8s, inline 6 cylinder engines, and 4 cylinder engines. Verify the specific fitment for your year/make/model vehicle.
• CARB legality – For street-driven vehicles in California and states that follow CARB regulations, ensure the air cleaner has an EO number for compliance.
• Housing material – Chrome steel and polished aluminum housings resist corrosion and provide bold styling.
• Filter media – Cotton gauze filters flow well when serviced properly. For extreme conditions, oiled foam filters have increased dust capacity.
• Size – 14″ and 16″ air cleaners suit different engine sizes and performance goals. Bigger is generally better for maximum airflow.
• Customization – Mr Gasket air cleaners can be upgraded with scoops, teardrop filters, aluminum stacks and more. Build your perfect intake setup.
• Intended use – If the vehicle sees extended idle times, heavy dust or debris, or extreme mud/water, take into account filter service intervals.

With so many options, it’s important to select the right Mr Gasket air cleaner to match your vehicle and meet your driving needs and performance goals.

Detailed Overview of Mr Gasket Air Cleaner Models

Mr Gasket offers two main models – the 14″ low-profile series and the 16″ standard series. Both feature an iconic Mr Gasket logo stamped into the housing. Here’s an in-depth look at each:

14″ Low-Profile Air Cleaners

The 14” air cleaners have a shortened filter element for a tight fitment under stock or custom hoods. Available with a chrome steel, polished aluminum or matte black finish.

Key features:

• One-piece steel or aluminum housing
• Flow-optimized 14” cotton gauze filter element
• 5.25” height great for tight engine bays
• Includes mounting gasket and hardware
• 90-day manufacturer’s warranty
• CARB EO pending approval

The low-profile 14” size makes an excellent direct replacement upgrade for stock air cleaners. It provides added airflow while fitting in cramped engine compartments. The chrome and polished aluminum versions add show-quality shine under the hood.

16″ Standard Air Cleaners

The traditional 16” size flows even more air thanks to increased filter surface area. Offered in chrome steel, Endurance black powder coat, or polished aluminum finish.

Key features:

• One-piece steel or aluminum housing
• High-flow 16” cotton gauze filter element
• 7” height fits most applications
• Includes mounting gasket and hardware
• 90-day manufacturer’s warranty
• CARB EO number approved

From classic muscle cars to pickup trucks, the 16″ air cleaner is a simple bolt-on upgrade that works great with stock or performance intake manifolds. The chrome and aluminum housings accentuate the vintage vibe. For custom builds, the bold Mr Gasket logo pops with pride.

Matching a Mr Gasket Air Cleaner to Your Vehicle

Finding the right Mr Gasket air cleaner takes a little research to match the housing style and filter size to your exact vehicle. Here are some tips:

• For carbureted vehicles, the 14” and 16” sizes work for most V8 and inline 6 cylinder engines. Measure clearance to ensure fitment under your hood.
• For fuel-injected applications, you’ll likely need a separate mass air flow (MAF) sensor housing, so measure carefully. Some universal air cleaner kits come with MAF provisions.
• Check the housing diameter – 3.875”, 4.5″, or 5.25” sizes are common. This must match the airflow inlet of your intake manifold.
• Verify the base neck size and bolt hole pattern. Mr Gasket air cleaners are available for Dodge, Chevy, Ford, AMC and other applications.
• For custom intake setups, you can mix and match Mr Gasket air cleaners with additional components like teardrop filters, smooth stacks or aluminum scoops.
• Note: The 14” size may not flow enough for high-RPM race engines over 500HP. Stick with the 16” for serious high-performance builds.

With some careful measurements under the hood and research into your particular year/make/model, you can select the ideal Mr Gasket air cleaner. This ensures a direct bolt-on installation and maximum performance.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

One of the best things about a Mr Gasket air cleaner is the straightforward installation. Here are the basic steps:

1. Remove the stock air cleaner assembly – Release the wing nut or clamp at the carburetor or throttle body, then remove the stock air cleaner and intake tube as an assembly. You may need to disconnect crankcase vent hoses.

2. Clean the engine surface – Use a shop rag to wipe down the intake manifold base around the neck opening. Remove any dirt or debris where the new air cleaner will mount.

3. Install the provided gasket – Place the rubber or composite gasket provided with the air cleaner kit over the intake manifold opening. Ensure it lays flat and the bolt holes align.

4. Mount the air cleaner – Set the Mr Gasket air cleaner housing in place over the gasket and intake neck. Insert the bolts through the holes and tighten evenly to the proper torque.

5. Connect intake and crankcase vent hoses – Use the provided connectors or clamps to secure the intake tube to the carb/throttle body and attach any vent hoses to the air cleaner fittings.

6. Perform a final check – Start the engine and listen for any air leaks around the mounting surface. Ensure all clamps and hardware are tight.

7. Admire your work! – The bold Mr Gasket logo should now be prominently on display. Enjoy the improved throttle response and power gains.

With just common hand tools, you can swap the factory air cleaner for a Mr Gasket performance upgrade in less than an hour. It’s one of the easiest ways to free up horsepower for increased acceleration and driving pleasure.

Customizing Your Intake With Add-On Components

The fun doesn’t stop with just the Mr Gasket air cleaner. You can customize the look and performance further by adding:

• Aluminum air cleaner scoops – Adhesive-mount scoops bolt to the housing for high-flow styling. Available in different shapes and finishes.
• Smooth aluminum air cleaner stacks – Replace the stock rubber intake tube with a CNC-machined aluminum velocity stack.
• Teardrop air filters – Screw-on teardrop filters sit under the air cleaner element to add bold styling.
• Pre-filters – Extend filter service life with a universal pre-filter wrap that goes around the cotton gauze element.
• Filter charger kits – For cotton gauze filters, recharging kits contain filter oil to apply during cleaning for increased dust capacity.

Mixing and matching stack styles, scoops and accessories allows you to build a truly custom Mr Gasket air cleaner suited to your engine and personal style. The bold logos can be color matched to your vehicle. Intake components are also great for engine dress-up during car shows.

Maintaining and Replacing Mr Gasket Air Cleaner Elements

To keep your Mr Gasket air cleaner flowing freely, the filter element should be periodically serviced. Here are some tips:

• For cotton gauze filters, check the element at oil changes and clean gently with an approved solvent when dusty. Re-oil lightly with filter oil.
• Foam filters can be cleaned and re-oiled more aggressively. Spray on the filter oil from the inside to saturate the entire element.
• Avoid knocking or hitting the element when removing or installing to prevent filter damage.
• Periodically check the housing, clamps, hoses and mounting gasket for damage or looseness.
• For heavy street use or off-road conditions, inspect and clean the filter more frequently.
• When the cotton gauze media appears worn out or the foam filter is overly dirty, replace the element with a fresh Mr Gasket filter.

Properly serviced and maintained, a Mr Gasket air cleaner should deliver tens of thousands of miles of like-new performance. When installed, be sure to note the recommended cleaning and replacement intervals.

Where to Buy a Mr Gasket Air Cleaner

Mr Gasket air cleaners and accessories are sold at a wide variety of retailers:

• Local auto parts stores – Major chains like AutoZone, O’Reilly and Pep Boys usually stock the most common Mr Gasket air cleaner applications. You can often price match Amazon or other websites.
• Online at Summit Racing – The huge performance parts catalog has the complete range of Mr Gasket air cleaner sizes and styles. Fast shipping is available.
• Jegs – Another trusted online source for high-performance parts with competitive pricing and quick delivery.
• eBay – New and used Mr Gasket air cleaners can be found here from individual sellers. Be sure to check fitment details.
• Mr Gasket website – You can buy direct from the manufacturer, but local stores or online retailers usually have better pricing.

For the best deal, shop around online and check pricing from multiple sources. Don’t forget to factor in any added shipping costs. With some smart shopping, you can score an amazing deal on a Mr Gasket air cleaner.

FAQs and Troubleshooting for Mr Gasket Air Cleaners

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Mr Gasket air cleaner performance, fitment and maintenance:

Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain?

A typical gain is 5-15HP, depending on the engine and modifications. Larger engines over 400ci tend to show the biggest improvements in power from an air cleaner upgrade. Check dyno test results for your particular application.

Q: Will a Mr Gasket air cleaner void my new car warranty?

As long as the air cleaner is CARB-approved and properly installed, it should not affect new car engine warranty coverage. Always verify with your dealer first.

Q: What causes low whistle or moaning noises?

This is usually caused by air leaks around the mounting surface, incorrectly installed or damaged gaskets, or clamps that are too loose on the intake tubes. Ensure everything is tightened down and sealed properly.

Q: Why is my air cleaner element getting dirty so quickly?

Frequent clogged elements typically indicate an issue with worn piston rings, valve guides, or PCV system that allow too much oil blow-by through the engine. The source of contamination should be fixed.

Q: How do I know when to recharge the cotton gauze filter?

Check the element at each oil change. When the cotton appears darkened or blackened by dirt and dust, it’s time to clean with filter cleaner and reapply filter oil.

Q: Can I mount the air cleaner backwards or upside down?

No – Mr Gasket air cleaners are designed to work only in the stock orientation. The inlet and outlet are not symmetrical or reversible. Mount as per the instructions.

Q: Does the chrome finish require special cleaning?

Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the chrome. Use a mild soap, warm water and soft cloth. Apply chrome polish to restore the mirror finish after cleaning.

Proper installation and regular filter maintenance should prevent most issues with a Mr Gasket air cleaner. Follow our troubleshooting tips to keep it working properly.

Customizing for Show-Stopping Engine Bays

WhileMr Gasket air cleaners offer easy bolt-on convenience, they’re also ideal starting points for custom engine dress-up projects:

• Use an aluminum polish or brush chrome cleaner on the housing – really make that bold logo pop!
• Add color-matched Mr Gasket valve covers for a coordinated look.
• Paint the housing in a custom color like candy apple red or metallic charcoal.
• Install molded silicone hoses in bright colors to complement the air cleaner.
• Machine the housing for an intercooler or auxiliary gauge mounts.
• Swap the filter element for a bold K&N conical filter.
• Add chromed zinc wing nuts to fasten the cover plate.
• Install a chromed engine dress-up kit with matching clamps and fasteners.

With so many possibilities, you’re limited only by your imagination when building a custom Mr Gasket air intake showpiece. It’s a great way to put your own stamp on even a fully restored classic muscle car.

Mr Gasket Air Cleaners – The Best Bang for Your Performance Buck

From backyard hot rods to immaculate trailer queens, Mr Gasket air cleaners deliver timeless style and performance at a reasonable price. The bold logos exude old-school cool back when horsepower ruled the streets. Durable one-piece housings and high-flow filters offer easy installation and maintenance.

Whether you’re breathing new life into a tired stock engine or pushing your modified powerplant to its limits, a Mr Gasket air cleaner should be one of the first upgrades you consider. The difference in throttle response is immediately noticeable, and the sound from under the hood changes to a pleasing performance tone. Plus, you never have to worry about smog-check hassles.

For your classic ride or work truck, step up to the proven power of Mr Gasket. An air cleaner upgrade takes just a few bolts to provide a serious boost in acceleration and enjoyment. Your engine will thank you!