Aftermarket air filters

[Baal]

Okay. I understand that the most common approach here is to go with a K&N. On other boards for other brands, this seems to be way less common. The reasons I've seen not to change are primarily two: 1) OE paper filters really aren't that restrictive, so there's not much to be gained in terms of flow efficiency, and 2) K&Ns (in particular) have fairly poor small particle filtering efficiency, so that more potentially harmful debris is allowed through the intake. Especially in view of how big the XB air filter is, I can buy reason #1. I tend to agree with #2 as well, having read articles to that effect on some automotive boards. So, the remaining reason to switch is to have a permanent filter (that you service, rather than change).

So, what are people's thoughts. If I'm (probably) not planning an ECM upgrade or an exhaust swap, is there really anything to be gained?

THX!

 

[konarider94]

the k&n will flow more air than a paper filter. whether your engine draws that much is another story. it should reduce the pumping work though, which results in more positive work output. it doesn't filter the dust like a paper filter does which is why i wouldn't use a k&n in an off road situation but on the road i doubt you will have any problems unless you drive down dirt roads at high rates of speed on a regular occasion. nothing larger than dust will make it through and it catches the majority of that. the fact that its serviceable is also a plus.

you will see more gains with exhaust mods, you cant flow too much more in if your not flowing more out. but i got my k&n for 33 bucks. cant pass that up.

 

[Stillonit]

I am using a uni filter. I have a couple cans of air filter spray that I used on my drz400 before I sold it. and I bought the uni for like $25.00 sound nice

 

[Baal]

I just thought I'd bump this up to see if there was any more discussion.

 

[Jabaniz]

i have used both the uni and piper cross foam filters, with an oil spray on them, i like them both, im just not a fan of K&N

 

[Buell ZA]

Guys, get yourself a decent cone filter for better performance and easy to clean and maintain

 

[Baal]

So, how is a smaller filter better?

 

[aaronbuell]

I've been running K&N's for years on cars, trucks, bikes and 4-wheelers with no problems. I know if you over oil them they can cause sensors to malfunction. It all comes down to how you maintain the filter. If they are oiled properly I don't see how they can suck in dust. I have had my 98 S3's intake off a few times and the carb no dirt or dust to be found. I live on and ride on alot of dirt roads.

 

[Alfatango1]

I've got the Buell Performance filter and it's been fine. Don't have to oil them, just rinse once in a while.

 

[BuellFan]

as an automotive technician I can tell you I've used K&N for many many years and have had no issues at all. 1997 GMC JIMMY 160K miles, 2001 Chevy 1500 142K miles, wifes 2007 SAAB 9-5 Turbo 46k miles Artic Cat 4-wheeler. 2007 XB12SS 14K miles and other vehicles over the years. It's the first thing I do when I get a new vehicle. I've only noticed more mpg and hp. My brother has one in his 2004 Chevy 2500 diesel 4wd with 280k miles and no engine probs.

 

[Alfatango1]

I've only noticed more mpg and hp. My brother has one in his 2004 Chevy 2500 diesel 4wd with 280k miles and no engine probs.

MPG I can say has happened for me in a few cars, HP, not so much. Throttle response and sound, yeseree bob!

 

[anrkizm95]

im with buellfan.ive been useing k&n filters for 20 years.the only problem with them is some people see the million mile sticker and think thats how often you clean them.[mad]

 

[austx2008]

I was planning on upgrading the factory air filter with a K&N air filter which I had read would help my XB12Ss tremendously. I would really like to go a step further and add a cool air intake solution.
Can anyone point me in the direction of a thread that might have DIY information on building a cool air in take mod for my bike?

 

[sidefx]

Does anyone have a picture of the UNI filter installed? and can you do a airbox delete like you can with the k&n?

 

[Stevenc150]

Airbox Delete - DIY - There's several more threads on this scattered about.

 

[sidefx]

I know how to do the airbox delete i was just wondering if the uni filter could stand up to the top clamping it in place.

 

[LeFox]

get a foam one [confused]

 

[mowgoli84]

Will someone explain how to oil the k&n?

Thanks

 

[xxspudxx]

@Buell ZA

Can we get a pic of that installed?

 

[Deon B]

Sorry guys, I been quite busy in my business and have not been on this site for quite a while, I will post a photo over the weekend