BUCKSHOT

I would also think that the environment that the truck frequents or sees' often would play a big part in how often it should or shouldn't be cleaned as well.

Flintlock

Thanks!!!

Stu L

It's funny this came up today. I've been searching for info for an OEM style filter, and Motorcraft just isn't cheap around here. Otto sent me some good info to consider. I'm not endorsing anyone or anything, but at least he linked to actual numbers and facts. And for the record I've had K&N before and had no problems.

kevhead75

Definitely. Not trying to pick fight over this but I can't see going 100k without cleaning a filter. Environment will be the biggest factor in how often to clean them.

There you used to be a great article on air filter efficiency and the iso 5011 test ( i think thats the name of the stanardized testing) Unfortunately it has been pulled from the internet and I haven't been able to find it since. It described how the testing is done and compared reusable type filters and disposable type filters. Was a great resource, wish I would have copied it. Here is another source though, even though they are testing air filter for a diesel the concept should apply to gas burning engines.

http://www.billswebspace.com/AirFilterTest.htm

alittleHP

I live in Nevada. I drive on dirt roads everyday. The first time I cleaned the filter, I got it all oiled up. Two months later it was black I could pretty much scrape mud off of it. The next time I cleaned it I barly put any oil for that reason. I have had the same cleaning kit the whole time I have had the filter.

No one answered the question. What is a good filter other than K&N?
I don't care about the gotts mod. I gave away the stock intake long ago.

otto457

Look at Volant (Donaldson) Powercore filters, S&B dry filters, aFe Pro dry filters, and AEM dry filters. Even S&B's oiled filter at 99.4% efficiency isn't a bad filter. These are all just my opinion for ones to look at. When it comes down to it, every filter will have the capacity to flow enough air to the motor. Which one you like and the level of efficiency that is important to you should determine your decision.

I like to think I intelligently discuss topics here rather than "spout off". If you would like to discuss which part of this thread I used opinions that were not backed by literature (minus the opinion I just gave above, which I stated was opinion), PM me and we can analyze this further.

SAWMAN556

The K&N filters are supposed to last for 100K but you still need to clean them when they are dirty.

Mod (Ret.)

Read the instructions that come with a K&N filter as far as how often it should be cleaned. The original poster mentioned he has cleaned his 6 times already. That's way too many times. I currently have over 15K on my K&N filter (CAI), it is is nowhere near needing cleaning yet. No doubt it depends on where you drive (dusty areas for example), but I cannot believe that 6 cleanings were required.

And yes, over oiling can cause an MAF inoperable, but that's not the fault of the filter or the manufacturer.

"No one answered the question. What is a good filter other than K&N?
I don't care about the gotts mod. I gave away the stock intake long ago."

For this I'd suggest the search. CAI's, exhaust, tunners, and oil get discussed all the time, and there are literally hundreds of posts on each subject that can be used to make a decision on what your next filter could be. However, since your K&N is doing it's job well (you said it was black and/por dirty), and you've had no issues with the drivability. I'd suggest you stick with it!

Flintlock

Heated thread! Looks like there might be pro's and con's to what ever we decide on doing. I talked to K&N today and asked about there clams and was told that there Filters are tested to preform well with stock engines that they are made for. He said that they stand behind there product. Well I hope I don't have any issues with mine. Plan on getting a programer down the road. A friend of mine has a K&N with about 30 k on it. No issues. I take good care of my truck with regular maintenance so we will see.

kevhead75

Bucko, I apologize for my post coming off a little pointed. Sometimes easier to speak then it is to write. I generally think that your post are well founded with the good information. I would buy you a beer if you were closer.
I will agree that washing a filter that often may be a bit much and yes over oiling is the operators fault. I have used many k&n in the past and still use them in racing applications. It allows me to switch filters quickly between heats and wash them so they are ready to go if needed.
If I were to buy a reusable filter I would most likely look at a dry one. Otto mentioned a few that are good filters to look at.