SAIS question - filter replace? (1 Viewer)

[SteveH]

This may be a stupid question, but I have seen nothing on this in the forum.

Since the SAIS problem seems to stem from the SAIS air filter disintegrating over time and getting sucked into the air pump, has anyone tried replacing or removing the filter? This seems obvious. This would still require removing the intake manifold, but why not prevent the failure, rather than mop up the mess after the air pump frags?

 

[Brake Weight]

Can it be removed completely from the engine management? I've removed the one from my 2004 VW and there are aftermarket kits of various diodes/resistors to 'trick' the ECU into thinking it is still there. This is a common failure for various makes and models globally.

 

[MallCrawler2006]

Its too much work and not worth the hassle. Most do the SAIS Bypass for peace of mind before it even breaks. I have an 08 GX470 with 175K miles and have yet to do it.

 

[IwantPrado]

If your SAIS system is functioning properly, it is best to swap out the internal pump filter with a breather type filter to help extend the life of the system and avoid costly component replacement or even a cheaper bypass kit. The 1" hose diameter breather filter is under $20 on Amazon. Of course for the 4Runners and GX470s it means you have to pull the intake manifold. The Tacoma and GX460 owners are lucky to have this system located externally. Check out the writeup: Lexus GX460 Secondary Air Intake Pump mod = "The Uni-Mod"

 

[SteveH]

Thanks!

 

[bcomnes]

TIL! Looks like a nice preventative mod to perform.

 

[IwantPrado]

The good news is I've successfully installed the filter. The sad news is that the original filter was not found in the housing, which makes me believe it is in pieces and contaminated the whole SAIS. Still, everything runs fine, no noise, no codes. I'm sure it is a matter of time. If SAIS or one of its components fails, I'll consider doing bypass kit. For now, the coolant leak is fixed, the new filter is in place and everything is running perfectly!
Thanks again for all your advice!

 

[IwantPrado]

I just did the SAIS filter swap here:

 

[bcomnes]

Damn looks quite hands on, really buried in there. Astounding video. Thank for that!

 

[Sgn2bapt]

Why wouldn’t you just use the bypass? 2008 - 2014 Plug & Play SAIS Bypass Kit

 

[IwantPrado]

Why wouldn’t you just use the bypass? 2008 - 2014 Plug & Play SAIS Bypass Kit

I have been kicking myself for not doing it. At least I have the truck back on the road in 1 day. I did not have time to wait for the kit to arrive, I had to fix the leak. At least I didn't have to get a $200 kit just yet. If any issues arise, I'll do the bypass kit. Install does not require any tearing down as in the video, its plug'n play.