Help Please!

Hi there. First time today I have found my way into my 1998 MGF engine.! I am a complete novice and hoping someone can explain what the 'empty box' is in the photos? I am hoping something is not missing? Hope this is not a silly question. Thanks. Tom

Hello and welcome.

That box is where the air filter normally resides, there should also be a top that clips on.

You should fit one as soon as possible as lots of impurities are getting into the engine.

 

Hello again.

Just noticed that you have a third party cone filter fitted that makes the original one redundant so no worries.

Well spotted gloscs didn't see that myself

You could get rid of the box completely and bring that cone filter out and down into the gap left by the box. Cool air is best going into the filter; so fit as far from the engine block and exhaust as you can. Difficult given the small engine bay on our MG,s, but there are useful "how to guides" regarding this.
Not sure of the make of that filter, but does it need a wash?

The best solution is to fit remove the half filter box and the open filter and replace with an OE filter box from a TF with two inlets. Use a performance panel filter.