want some advice on air filters

Hi everybody, I could use some advice.  I have a friend that has a Jeep with a 2.4 liter engine.  He was trying to find a cheap way to get more air into the throttlebody.  So here is what he did and I am not sure it was to smart.  On the 2.4 engine the air filter stands vertically rather than laying flat.  He removed the portion of the air filter housing that has the air horn.  Then he siliconed the filter to the portion of the filter housing that is attached to the hose leading to the throttlebody.  essentially making an open faced air filter.  What my concerns are for him are this.  The air filter is above the exhaust manifold so I don't think that the air will be very cool.  Secondly it rains a lot here in Louisiana.  so I was concerned about the potential for water getting into his engine.  When he steps on the gas to me it sounds like a rice grinder with one of those tin can mufflers.  does anyone have any advice or facts that I can share with him whether good or bad?  Thanks  

Sounds like the kind of guy that wouldn't listen anyway. A lot of dyno testing and research goes into most cold-air intake kits. Either he isn't aware, or doesn't care because he thinks they cost to much and he can build a cheaper one. Funny thing is you can often lose power if you simply slap something together. For example: We've tested lots of kits and have found that running no filter and tube at all makes less power than a tuned system.  

I pointed him to your website as I remembered your articles on performance adons.  but he said that he didn't see the problem with doing it cheaply.  But you are right he probably won't listen.  I was just hoping that you might be able to save him some headache.  whats that old saying.  you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink.  So I guess it is his Jeep and his decision.  Thanks