Hey fellow Mazdaspeed 3 enthusiasts! Ever run into a snag when installing aftermarket parts? I recently faced a minor hiccup while fitting a JBR Tru-3.5 intake on my 2007 Mazdaspeed 3. The mounting wasn’t as straightforward as I’d hoped, but like any good DIYer, I found a workaround that’s been holding strong for quite some time.
Initially, the JBR Tru-3.5 intake’s bracket didn’t quite line up perfectly with the stock mounting location on my 07 Mazdaspeed 3. Instead of forcing it or waiting for a perfect solution, I opted for a temporary fix using zip-ties. Yes, you read that right – zip-ties! I know it sounds a bit unconventional, but hear me out.
As you can see in the image, I used several zip-ties to hang the JBR Tru-3.5 intake from a hole in the bracket, securing it above the standard mounting point on my 2007 Mazdaspeed 3. This allowed me to properly position the intake. Now, I’m aware this isn’t a rigid, textbook mounting solution. There’s likely some upward bounce and wiggle at the filter end. However, even with these potential drawbacks, this zip-tie method has surprisingly held up for over 25,000 miles on my 07 Mazdaspeed 3 without any noticeable issues. I’ve regularly inspected the area, especially because it sits close to what I believe is the HID ballast, but haven’t observed any problems.
For those seeking a slightly more refined approach for their 2007 Mazdaspeed 3 intake install, I actually purchased an alternative mounting solution but haven’t needed to use it yet. It’s the 7295K43 plastic pivot joint from McMaster-Carr.
This joint could be mounted on the stud used by the stock hanger on the 2007 Mazdaspeed 3. You could then secure it with a nut. However, due to the plastic construction, a single nut might not provide sufficient clamping force. To use this effectively, you’d likely need to double nut it or use a nylock nut, or ideally both, to ensure a secure fit for your Mazdaspeed 3 intake.
While addressing the intake, I also took a moment to protect the wire harness in the vicinity. Using an old suede work glove, I cut it open and wrapped it around the wire junction area. I then secured this makeshift armor with more zip-ties. This adds a layer of protection to the wiring harness near the intake on my 07 Mazdaspeed 3.
This simple step can prevent potential chafing or damage to the wires, especially in an area prone to vibration and movement. It’s a quick and easy way to add a bit of extra durability under the hood of your 2007 Mazdaspeed 3.
One more thing to note – be mindful of potential rubbing. Initially, the JBR hangar was scratching my battery box. Knowing JBR’s T-bolt setup, you can probably imagine the point of contact. Keep an eye out for such issues when installing aftermarket intakes on your 2007 Mazdaspeed 3 and make adjustments as needed to prevent wear and tear.
So, there you have it – a temporary zip-tie fix that works and a potential upgrade using a plastic pivot joint for mounting your JBR Tru-3.5 intake on a 2007 Mazdaspeed 3. Sometimes, a bit of DIY ingenuity is all you need to keep your ride running smoothly!
