[Gallagher]

So....in case anybody was wondering (I was!), k&n shows a filter #33-2011 that fits esprit to '88 and earlier. I tried the install on a 1990 SE. There are posts on various sites that says it fits later models etc, so I gave it a try.

Verdict is:

I had way less trouble fitting it than the guy that wrote it up on lotus esprit world...switched the rubber gasket from the metal plate/paper filter unit and it pretty much dropped in....your mileage may vary.

LEW installer said that the "seat of the pants dyno" said that there was a noticeable improvement. The Gallagher dyno says.....no difference.

Same power, same sound, pretty much a drop in ( with a little fiddling).

So anyone contemplating this as a replacement for their existing filter should expect the performance of their existing filter, just a little harder to put in.

Nothing negative to say, just my experience, hope it helps!

 

[Esprit2]

K&N 33-2784 is a direct fit, metal framed, perfect clone of the OEM Lotus air filter. However, it's for a Euro application, and is not something K&N stocks in it's North American warehouse. Any K&N dealer can special order 2784 for you, but it usually requires a case-lot minimum order. You're better off ordering from a Lotus specialists, like JAE, who stocks the proper 33-2784.

For inventory convenience, K&N North America recommends the floppy-plastic framed 33-2011. It's not the best fit, or even a good fit, it's just convenient for their inventory control people. 33-2011 can be fitted to an Esprit, but it does not fit well. Try 2011 alone, and yes, you can make it fit. Too bad, that's were most cross-reference recommendations end. But try a 33-2784 and a 33-2011 back to back, and 2011 isn't even in the same ball park, much less competitive in the same game.

Regards,
Tim Engel

 

[esprit888]

Phew ! (I have a 2784 sitting on the shelf )

K&N 33-2784 is a direct fit, metal framed, perfect clone of the OEM Lotus air filter. However, it's for a Euro application, and is not something K&N stocks in it's North American warehouse. Any K&N dealer can special order 2784 for you, but it usually requires a case-lot minimum order. You're better off ordering from a Lotus specialists, like JAE, who stocks the proper 33-2784.

For inventory convenience, K&N North America recommends the floppy-plastic framed 33-2011. It's not the best fit, or even a good fit, it's just convenient for their inventory control people. 33-2011 can be fitted to an Esprit, but it does not fit well. Try 2011 alone, and yes, you can make it fit. Too bad, that's were most cross-reference recommendations end. But try a 33-2784 and a 33-2011 back to back, and 2011 isn't even in the same ball park, much less competitive in the same game.

Regards,
Tim Engel

 

[Turbo R]

Best Esprit K & N air filter writeup ever!

Finally, someone clarifies what works and why, while backing it up with a picture and model numbers in a clear and concise way that we can all understand.
In all these years, I never realized there were two possible choices.

Thanks so much, Tim!

Now I have to figure out which one I have in mine...I have a feeling it is the poorer fitting 33-2011 as installed by the previous owner.

Roy

 

[Gallagher]

Phew ! (I have a 2784 sitting on the shelf )

Yup, I'd do the 2784 for sure next time!

 

[Esprit2]

Both of the metal framed filters, Lotus OEM and K&N, require a rubber seal. You're supposed to transfer the seal from the old filter to the new one, and re-use it. If you need to replace the old seal, be sure to order a new one from your favorite Lotus specialist, since one will not automatically come with the new filter.

Regards,
Tim Engel