AIT sensor install question?
 

Anyone know the drill/tap size for the GM open air element AIT sensor? I've been looking online and I am getting conflicting answers. Most say 3/8 NPT, but it is way bigger than 3/8". I'm thinking 5/8" maybe? Just trying to get the right size tap to install it into the IM.

3/8" NPT is right, you'll need a 9/16" drill bit. The "3/8" is supposed to correlate to the inside pipe diameter, but in reality it doesn't mean much.

Definitely a 3/8" NPT

ya 3/8", dont tap all the way through, go maybe halfway down the tap. Heres my AIT. I like showing off my work :)

Attachment 216913

Nice stuff. If your IM is still on the car, it works just as well in the IC piping near the TB. After all, in a stock application it's waaaaay over there in the AFM.

So wait you dont tap all the way into the intake manifold?

dont use all the threads on the tap because it will make it too loose, you want the sensor to fit snugly.

Thanks guys. Got my NPT tap kit and saw the size of the tap and it all made sense. Now just to get a 9/16 drill bit and I'll get crackin'.

Good Luck BRGRacer. I am not too far behind you. I have MS built and just need to finish up some testing and make sure it is good to go, then I will be installing it. I chose to go with the IAT as well and not use easytherm. Nice looking manifold.

3/8 npt. I bought a 3/8 npt pipe bung and welded it to my intercooler pipe just before the TB. I don't like the idea if drilling my manifold one bit.

You don't tape all the way because NPT threads are tapered so by taping only half way you keep a smaller taper so that the fitting can actually snug up in the threaded hole. If you tap all the way in it will just sit in there losely.
Use some sort of sealant on that sensor as well when installing.

its a tapered thread

tappin the manifold would be pretty sweet if you're running WI. IC pipinig is easier and works fine though.

mine is gonna be sitting by the air filter for a while

So do you have to install a bung if you want to do the ic piping?

I'm thinking there isnt enough thickness on the piping to just drill and tap?

my pipes are aluminum so i guess ill just tap the intake manifold if i can tap the pipes

I doubt you'll be able to tap an IC pipe. There's not enough thickness.

I got the sensor kit from DIY-A that included a steel bung, so I welded it up. https://www.miataturbo.net/forums/at...1&d=1179271878

you could tap it but it would require a set nut or a welded on bung.

Thats gay, i ordered from them and they didnt give me a bung.. what size threads go for that bung? the reason im asking this is my IC pipes are aluminum, wouldnt it be a PITA to weld a steel bung onto alum. pipe? I think ill just tap the intake manifold..

How deep is the wall on the intake manifold where i'm supposed to tap it at?

diyautotune.com has an aluminum 3/8 NPT bung for $9: click!

Cheers!

Jeff

Sweet thanks