CUTTING THE BEAR CLAWS

[GRAMPY]

Just wondering if I can get advise how to cut the bear-claw,--- to accommodate replacement filters, which I have in mind to do soon
Guess I might bollocks it up, without right method
Thanks peeps

 

[CanberraR3]

I used a Dremel with a cutting wheel. You'll go through a few discs. A good idea is to lay tape over the chrome and then mark your line on that so you reduce the chance of any slips marking the chrome. As much as possible cut from the inside, although the curve of the claw makes that difficult (it's also hard to mark it right). I cut off less than I needed to and then cut more; finished up with a couple of ribbons of off-cut. I wouldn't recommend that - took me 3 times as long - but certainly allow a little for a final trim and neaten. Be bold. The worst that can happen is you cut away a little more than you intended and no one but you will notice that.

The cut edge could rust a little, depending on where you are. I slid a candle across the edge of mine and it really didn't rust at all, but I'm inland and it is pretty dry here. I did slit a length of thin (2-3 mm) clear, tubing and put it over the edge. Looked like chrome. You can buy edging.

 

[warp9.9]

They are easy to cut I also used masking tape on mine marked it and used a jig saw with a metal blade in it. It cut like a hot knife through butter. Put some chrome trip on the cut edge mounted her and went for a ride. I must admit I was worried about mucking it up but it went easier then you could imagine.

 

[GPMAZ]

Chainsaw! Why P*ssyfoot around?

Ok, I used a Dremel as well. Tape both sides, take your time and it'll come out fine.

 

[Triple Trouble]

Which filters are you putting on? You may not have to cut!

 

[Jag]

I believe if u use K&N ru 2780 u will not have to cut.

 

[cardinal93]

Pretty much same process as Richard.
I used a cardboard box first. Formed it to the claw, then removed it. Cut it, small first, then outward. Once it fit like I wanted over the filters, placed it back in the claw and traced my cut marks over masking tape.
Then the dremael wheel and sander on the claw. I put edge trim over the cuts for a finishing look and to take care of the rust issues.

 

[GPMAZ]

You probably can cram the 2780s under the bearclaw if you try hard enough. On an R3T the rear filter will be distorted a bit, but it will fit. I think the other models have more room than the R3T.

That said, a big benefit to cutting down the bearclaw is airflow. By exposing the filters you will get a drop in intake air temperature. Cooler intake air temps equals more power.

 

[STRIPES]

Does anybody have any data on how much power is improved by just replacing all the stock intake plumbing with K&N's and a good tune?

 

[GRAMPY]

All your comments and advise are really appreciated, thank you all; I was thinking of the K&Ns , but read on here there may be issues with fasteners cracking ?.--
---Advise on the best types would be welcomed as well. (I'm a keen fettler),--but no great mechanic..

Looks like I'll need ta get a Dremel.