Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Limited Edition: Ownership Review


Status
Not open for further replies.
Thread Starter #62
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
Cold Start Sound Comparison of K&N vs Stock

This morning, I compared the cold start sound of K&N vs Stock air filter. The process was fairly simple – downloaded the Sound Meter app from play store and matched it against the professional Sound Level Meter assuming it to be still in-calibration. This was done as there was no continuous logging in the professional Sound Level Meter. There was an offset of 2 dB on the phone app which was adjusted after which both the meter and the app showed the same readings for certain music. The Pajero Sport was not started for around 12 hours and parked in open without any shade. The ambient temperature at the time of test was 7 degree C.

Sound Level Meter used for calibration of phone app
DSC_3607_Small.jpg


I did 2 tests with each filter – one with the phone kept on the center arm rest between the front seats with the bonnet and all doors with their windows closed while the other was done with bonnet open and phone kept on top of the front grill above the logo.

As K&N air filter was already installed, it was tested first with phone inside vehicle and then outside reading was captured. Then the air filter was swapped with the original and the readings were captured again with outside first and then inside vehicle. I am considering negligible engine temperature rise as the engine was switched off after 60 sec to safeguard the Turbo.

First vs Fourth Test result:
As visible in the screenshots, there is a difference of 1 dB between the sound with K&N (Max Sound 60 dB) and stock filter (Max Sound 59 dB).
K&N1.jpg

The 2 humps in the graph represent the first and second click of the key when turned from OFF to ACC and from ACC to IGN respectively.
K&N2.jpg


Second vs Third Test result:
There is again a difference of 1 dB between the sound with K&N (Max Sound 88 dB) and stock filter (Max Sound 87 dB).
K&N3.jpg

The sole hump represents the sound of the relay when the Ignition is turned ON.
K&N4.jpg


Increase of 1 dB in Sound Level at cold start with K&N air filter could be an error as even the minimum level changes. Even if not, it is probably an imperceptible change or at the most can be termed as barely perceptible.

Disclaimer: The data above is for information purpose only.
 
Joined
Dec 1, 2011
Messages
3,155
Likes
2,036
Location
Pune
Ohh i love the science and hard work you put in to this more than anything else -exactly why i chased you down to join here - lol.
Can the one db be attributed to dust particle explosions :tongue: in case of K&N

I had used the sound meter app to prove a point once for NVH - decibel readings vs how the human ear interprets sound.

Btw seats need cleaning :stupid:
 
Last edited:
Thread Starter #64
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
^^
I should be thankful to you for introducing me to such a great community.

Now we are talking particle level science [lol] . I'll put up the dust comparison pics soon.

All this science seems to have made me and my Pajero Sport messy [;)].
 
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
Increase of 1 dB in Sound Level at cold start with K&N air filter could be an error as even the minimum level changes.
So the K&N does make the engine make more noise. I had also noticed this when I had started Chetak after a 30 day break with K&N installed.
Can my human ears make out the difference between 1dB here and there? I dunno but K&N definitely felt louder.
 
Thread Starter #66
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
Can my human ears make out the difference between 1dB here and there? I dunno but K&N definitely felt louder.
I think being auto enthusiasts, we have learned the art of differentiating minutest sound level change (1 dB or less) in anything related to automobile sounds [:D]. After seeing the results, I too was surprised and feel that the difference higher-up the revs could be more causing the perception of louder idling / cold start sound. Need to gather more data.
 
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
Thought of summing up my K&N filter experience over 5000km here. Since I prefer multiple data points, I have now loaned it to a friend who will test it over the next couple of months in traffic to note any fuel efficiency drops he observes with it along with performance improvement/change.

1. Cold start noise certainly felt higher than before. It felt like the the engine was breathing better hence had become more vocal in a tinny sort of way. Post warm up, I could not make out any difference both in idling, acceleration and cruising.

2. Low end grunt. This felt improved by around 10%, however, since I do not drive a lot in the city, I cannot really put a finger to the difference it makes in traffic. On the highway, mid-range seemed to be unaffected while top-end stays the same (The needle goes all the way to the end of the speedo as always).

3. Fuel Efficiency. This definitely has gone down. I usually get between 10.7-11.3 on highways at speeds between 110-120 kmph with System-D but this time, it never exceeded 10kmpl. The lowest was 9.8kmpl.
 
Thread Starter #68
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
Additions Part 5 – Switchback Day Time Running Lamp Turn Indicator LED
The details and short review of the product can be found here. Elaborating the details relevant to Pajero Sport here.

Checked the owner’s manual of the Pajero Sport and the Turn Signal bulb was listed as PY21W. It cross referenced with BAU15S type holder. Still, before ordering, I checked the bulb and holder physically to make sure there is no deviation and that the size of the bulb itself would fit in place of the original.

The only complexity involved was selecting the right ignition wire to tap as there was no possible way to use a fuse tap in the fuse box and get the wire out without cutting space for the same in the fuse box cover. This could have affected the water proofing capability of the fuse box. Added another circuit which senses a wire for ignition and used the fused supply already made available for the LED Light Bar. This way, the supply in the DRL mode is also fused and the DRL automatically comes ON when the key is turned to IGN. Luckily, the wire I have sensed seems to have some power for upto 30 seconds more after the ignition is turned off. This gives the effect of a delayed turn-off of DRL similar to follow me home lamp feature available in some cars.

The wiring for the DRL from the Left to Right side is concealed behind the grill along the support for the front bumper. This way, the wire was kept short and out of sight. Tested the setup before finally installing the components. The respective load resistors were pasted close to the headlamps on the body with double sided tape and original holder was wrapped in plastic shrink wrap to prevent it from damaging.

Turn-indicator bulb
DSC_2555_Small.jpg

Holder of the bulb
DSC_2556_Small.jpg

Testing the DRL after wiring
DSC_3608_Small.jpg

Testing the turn-signal after wiring
DSC_3609_Small.jpg

Overall happy with the end result [:D].
 
Last edited:
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
Overall happy with the end result [:D].
I have the same product but have not been wanting to fit it since I too am not comfortable meddling with the OE wiring. However, since you have done a good job of fitting it, can you please post more pictures of where you took the power supply from and how the wires have been routed? I will then fit mine in the same manner.
 
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
Overall happy with the end result [:D].[/JUSTIFY]
Me too..!! Here is the detailed update.

***Pimp-up Update***
Chetak got a few things installed today which were pending for quite some time.
1. A clock on the centre console. You see, I like clocks in cars since they are an easier way to check time on the move. Hariya (My Scorpio CRDe) had a decent digital clock in the speedometer console and it was very useful. However, Chetak has none. The sound system has a small clock on the RH lower corner but it is too small and moreover, since I do not like the glare of the head unit, I keep it turned off unless I am using the GPS, which I rarely do. So the need for a clock increased. I did some research on AliExpress and purchased this:
Free shipping Cigarette Lighter Car Digital Clock with Thermometer and Automotive Voltmeter Backlight Display(12V)-in Ornaments from Automobiles & Motorcycles on Aliexpress.com | Alibaba Group
I am happy with its overall quality and had it installed at Svr Mitsubishi. I have connected it to the vehicle ignition and hence avoided dangling wires and that cigarette lighter socket based power unit as well.
2. DRLs are something I've always been a fan of. They increase visibility in foggy/dusty/dark conditions and since Chetak is black, I felt the need even more. However, I am against cutting/drilling etc as much as possible and getting something that fits without modification was a challenge. However, research on Ali Express showed me this:
Night Lord For Mitsubishi pajero sport LED DRL Daytime Running Lights&Front Turn Signals light All In One free shipping-in Daytime Running Lights from Automobiles & Motorcycles on Aliexpress.com | Alibaba Group
I ordered them and had them fitted and connected to the ignition and they work like a charm.
3. AC Filter was also purchased from Raj Dutt who is our reputed supplier on the forum and was installed at the ASC. A small but important addition for the longevity of the ac components of the truck.
4. Cruise Control was installed and checked. Chetak had the clutch switch and the electrician's inability to access it resulted in some anxious moments. However, one call to Avadhesh Tyagi ji from Vivek Autolinks Ghaziabad cleared all matters and Chetak can now cruise on his own when required. Thank you Tyagi ji.

I am off to a 1300km KL trip today and will have ample time to test all the installations including the cruise control.
 
Thread Starter #71
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
^^Great additions.
I took some pictures of the installation of the DRL and would put them soon. Would appreciate if you too could also share how you have tapped the ignition wire in the bonnet. It would help me removing the circuit I have placed.
The place of hiding for C-101 connector for the clutch switch surely results in anxious moments.
Happy a safe trip [:)].
 
Thread Starter #72
Joined
Nov 28, 2015
Messages
427
Likes
814
Location
Roorkee
Additions Part 6 – TPMS
The details and short review of the product I have installed can be found here. Elaborating the details relevant to Pajero Sport.

After experiencing TPMS in the Scorpio, I wanted to install one in the Pajero Sport. The only criterion for selection was external sensor (for easy install), solar powered (to avoid wiring) and getting all 4 tyre pressures with the air temperatures simultaneously.

I was confused about the placement as the recommended placement on the top right felt that it could affect concentration during driving being in my field of view. Pasted the unit with a transparent tape to try it out for a day and it really was annoying especially at night with the backlight ON. Finally, installed it above the Internal Rear View Mirror. This way, the unit is not disturbing the field of view. Even with the shade band, the solar charging capability is not hampered.

Installation of display
DSC04009_Small.jpg
DSC04010_Small.jpg

Specific to the Pajero Sport, I noticed that the unit experiences random loss of communication with Front Left sensor resulting in beep form the unit. Swapped the sensor but the result was still the same. Probably, there is interference from other RF sources of the Pajero Sport.

Front Left Sensor communication failure
DSC_3138_Small.jpg
 
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
I am off to a 1300km KL trip today and will have ample time to test all the installations including the cruise control.
Route: Bangalore-Cochin-Munnar-Cochin-Bangalore.

Drove upto Kolukkumalai in 4WD mode and Chetak walked up the slope and down it. For the uninitiated, here is more information about the place which has the world's highest tea gardens.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolukkumalai

Fuel Efficiency: 11.6, 10.02, 12.04 kmpl respectively. The best fuel efficiency was achieved during the return journey from Cochin to Bangalore with speeds at 100kmph and some use of cruise control.

The Good: Tested all the accessories and I am indeed happy with them.

The clock looks great, has blue back lighting and while it gives battery and temperature info, I prefer to keep it in the clock mode only. My biggest grouse has been solved.

The DRLs with turn lamps are simply great. They are bright, turn off when the indicator is turned on, and there was absolutely no wire cutting needed to install them. They are connected to the ignition and come on when the ignition key is in the ON position. Also, unlike other LED bulbs which make the indicators flash faster than normal, these DRLs maintain the same speed of flashing. Critical for safety.

Cruise Control is indeed a boon on highways, especially the four laned kind during night and during long drives. It is easy to use, works great and I feel, saves some fuel since its throttle inputs are very precise and hence ensure greater efficiency.

Stock/OE air filter is back on Chetak and I have no complaints. Maybe it is because I do not drive in the city. I am also an unabashed miser when it comes to fuel efficiency you see..!!

The AC filter is also installed and is supposedly doing its job. There is no way of finding that out of course.

The Bad:

The beige interiors are literal dust magnets. With 4 adults and 2 kids, Chetak is now extremely dirty inside and I need to get Chetak to a spa asap.

I sprained my leg when I got down to inspect the damage caused due to the side steps hitting a big loose rock on the descent from Kolukkumalai. There is a small dent on the left footstep and a sprain on my left foot.


The Fun:

Everyone we asked directions to Kolukkumalai told us that it is only jeeps which make it there since the road is bad. Even after we started the ascent, a couple of jeep drivers told us to go back since the switchbacks were too acute according to them and Chetak would not make it to the top. However, we made it pretty comfortably walking up the slope in 1st gear 4LLc. Halfway up the ascent, another driver was telling his passengers "Here is one more who is trying to damage his vehicle." I was perplexed but saw the reason soon after.

At one of the bends, there was a brand new Scorpio 4WD with its front bumper dangling from one end. The owner and their family were standing there so I asked them if they needed help in removing the bumper completely.

They said, "We know the bumper is gone, but the fuel tank took a hit and is leaking diesel. We want to get home now and know that all 4WDs are not equal."

I had some duck tape and tried to tape the leak but it wasn't working. They had called the local M&M dealer for help and it was apparently on its way.

When we reached the top and were parking, an old driver came and took a close look all around Chetak with special focus on the underbody, the front bumper and the chassis. He asked me if I had any hits. When I said none so far, he said " a Bolero tried to do it but it broke its front bumper and footsteps". This is a high vehicle so it made it.

I felt good for having brought Chetak into my life and understood the impact approach, ramp break over and departure angles make in real life...!![clap]
 
Joined
Aug 23, 2009
Messages
120
Likes
32
Location
Navi Mumbai
The Fun:

Everyone we asked directions to Kolukkumalai told us that it is only jeeps which make it there since the road is bad. Even after we started the ascent, a couple of jeep drivers told us to go back since the switchbacks were too acute according to them and Chetak would not make it to the top. However, we made it pretty comfortably walking up the slope in 1st gear 4LLc. Halfway up the ascent, another driver was telling his passengers "Here is one more who is trying to damage his vehicle." I was perplexed but saw the reason soon after.

At one of the bends, there was a brand new Scorpio 4WD with its front bumper dangling from one end. The owner and their family were standing there so I asked them if they needed help in removing the bumper completely.

They said, "We know the bumper is gone, but the fuel tank took a hit and is leaking diesel. We want to get home now and know that all 4WDs are not equal."

I had some duck tape and tried to tape the leak but it wasn't working. They had called the local M&M dealer for help and it was apparently on its way.

When we reached the top and were parking, an old driver came and took a close look all around Chetak with special focus on the underbody, the front bumper and the chassis. He asked me if I had any hits. When I said none so far, he said " a Bolero tried to do it but it broke its front bumper and footsteps". This is a high vehicle so it made it.

I felt good for having brought Chetak into my life and understood the impact approach, ramp break over and departure angles make in real life...!![clap]
Impressed and would like to visit this place. Can you share some pics of this place and that of Chetak while off-roading?
 
Joined
Jun 11, 2014
Messages
152
Likes
82
Location
Bangalore
Impressed and would like to visit this place. Can you share some pics of this place and that of Chetak while off-roading?
Pictures of the place, yes. They are on my friend's phone and I will share them. However, there are no pictures of Chetak en route the trail though I have a couple of them with him at the peak. I will upload them.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top Bottom