I used to have an 850, and when I modified the intake I cut out the black plastic grid that was located in front of the MAF sensor. I found that this did nothing other than restricting airflow, and removing it had no adverse effects; on the contrary, it had a positive effect on performance.

I was not surprised when I found this on my S80 T6, and once again, cut out the black plastic grid in front of the MAF sensor. Once again, I found a performance increase, slight but it was there, with the stock air box.

What I am confused about, is that I can't remember if my old 850 had the wire mesh that is in front of the MAF sensor, that the S80 has behind the black plastic grid. What purpose does that wire mesh have besides restricting air flow? Can I remove it without worry? Is this the flametrap? Any help would be appreciated.

-J.P.