air filter question

[transmothra]

Today i replaced the air filter on my '99 four banger and i put it on accordion side down, per the picture on the box and my dad's recommendation. But i thought when i took the dirty one out it was accordion side up with the metal mesh side down. Which is it? Also, is it supposed to be a real tight fit, with the plastic frame basically acting as a gasket?

Sorry if this is stupid, but i'm actually more accustomed to older cars with carbs.

Thanks!

[[ion] C2]

Most of us here have absolutely no idea, I'm guessing, since most have aftermarket intakes. I'm assuming it really doesn't matter the direction.

[mfuller]

When outside air comes into the airbox, it should hit the accordian side of the panel filter first. It should exit through the metal mesh side before travelling into the intake manifold.

[Valley olds]

Also, referring to the seal, the rubber frame of the filter does act as a gasket. At least thats how it ended up on on mine. If you look through the sides of the air filter box, you are able to see parts, of the rubber part of the filter.

[transmothra]

Thanks everyone! It just looked weird, but it looks like the air is coming in from underneath, so it looks upside down.

[zzyzzx]

On my 6 clyinder model, the accordian side is down.
It was also down on my 1986 and 1995 Escorts.

[AGT]

One side should fit "in" the air box while the other side will just sit on the lip.

[YALEROYNOT]

wire mesh up (motor side) also it might have a flow arrow on the side of the filter.