Air filters
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New User
Joined: Dec 2004
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Air filters
Does anybody know for sure if a K&N filter is better or a paper filter? I have a hard time with hype. Everything advertised for after market products for an engine will "save you gas". I figure if I buy about 20 different goodies I can sell back gas! Point is: does a K&N air filter really breath better or is this a false claim that a normal person has no hope of proving?
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,619
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From: Albuquerque
A K & N definitely flows better. Because of it's oiled design it should also filter better. If using an open element go to a taller filter for even more efficency. I also like the fact that it's permanent so i'm not buying and throwing filters in the trash.
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2000
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From: SD
I've read several auto mag reports proving that the cfm rating of the k&n is better than a paper filter. But in my opinion, a daily driver that rarely sees high rpms won't get much benefit from it - compared to a good quality paper filter. I've installed a mopar air cleaner (which holds a larger filter) and dual Ford snorkels with a paper Wix filter from NAPA, and am very pleased with it. Plus I drive on dusty gravel roads, so the filter gets replaced every couple months. I prefer to throw away the dirt and get a new $10 filter, rather than spend a hour cleaning a k&n filter. But that's just my opinion.
Marty
Marty
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Joined: Apr 2000
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From: SD
Search through this forumn for 'dual snorkle' you will find lots of reading. I got the filter housing off a 70's Dodge pickup. It holds a 4" tall filter and fits right on my Edelbrock carb, but it was a single snorkle. Then I removed the Dodge snorkle and installed two matching snorkles (after cutting a second hole) from 70's Fords and painted it all Ford blue. Everyone thinks it's a Ford part. Soon I will run tubing to the radiator support for cold air induction - haven't gotten to that since installing a new radiator support...
Marty
Marty
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2004
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From: Cincinnati
I have used both filters, and have not noticed an improvement in performance due to increased air flow, perhaps it would help in hi-rev performance applications. I do like the washability of the K&N. Although cleaning the filter is a chore, I do like the fact that I don't have to drive 20 miles to the parts store only to find they don't have the size filter I need. Also, since the filtercan be cleaned, I tend to clean it more often than I would replacing a paper one.
John24255
John24255
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2004
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From: Cincinnati
Have you guys noticed any performance differences when adding additional snorkels to your air cleaners?
John24255
John24255
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2000
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From: Albuquerque
The factory air inlet system is very efficent but also restrictive. A dual snorkle helps. I'm using a "Ram Air Box" enclosed K&N (14"x5") with a 4" inlet hose drawing air from the front bulkhead during summer. It's a definite improvement.