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K&N air filter really that good?

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Old 07-05-2011, 12:40 AM
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Default K&N air filter really that good?

So I changed out my air filter today and when I asked about the k&n air filter is was 65 bucks as compared to the normal 11 dollar standard discount autoparts air filter. What's the big difference? Does it really even increase horse power?
Btw, I took the thrifty approach and bought the 11 dollar air filter.. lol.
Old 07-05-2011, 12:53 AM
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You can always get the Spectre brand that is half the price of K/N. Basically exact same thing.
Old 07-05-2011, 12:56 AM
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Yeah I just didn't see why a K&N filter was five times more expensive than just standard. I was just wondering how much it actually helps out performance wise. But thank you for that tip.
Old 07-05-2011, 01:04 AM
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No increase in HP. You can wash and reuse it, which is the big advantage. Of course you have to re-oil it as well, which isn't always good for your MAF if you use too much.

They also have a great marketing dept., which is why people will shell out 65 bucks for a filter and think they're getting more hp.

IMO if you're going to go with a reuseable filter, go with the Amsoil. It filters better, and doesn't use oil.

I run paper filters in my car, btw.
Old 07-05-2011, 01:09 AM
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The science behind the K&N filters is ridiculous. I mean, how is a filter medium supposed to allow higher airflow while properly filtering the garbage out of the air? With that magic red oil you spray on the filter itself? As far as I'm concerned, more air equals more dirt into your engine. Even if the K&N filters gave you more power, it isn't worth the trade-off if there's more dirt getting inside of my engine; K&N can keep their extra 10 horsepower, the magic red oil, their stickers and donate it to the ricers. I'll keep my engine clean.

With all this said I run K&N air filters in all of my cars, lol...
Old 07-05-2011, 01:22 AM
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Originally Posted by StuntmanMike
No increase in HP. You can wash and reuse it, which is the big advantage. Of course you have to re-oil it as well, which isn't always good for your MAF if you use too much.

They also have a great marketing dept., which is why people will shell out 65 bucks for a filter and think they're getting more hp.

IMO if you're going to go with a reuseable filter, go with the Amsoil. It filters better, and doesn't use oil.

I run paper filters in my car, btw.
Oh, I see..
Thanks man. I'm glad I didn't spend an extra 54 bucks still..
Old 07-05-2011, 01:28 AM
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Originally Posted by myk
The science behind the K&N filters is ridiculous. I mean, how is a filter medium supposed to allow higher airflow while properly filtering the garbage out of the air? With that magic red oil you spray on the filter itself? As far as I'm concerned, more air equals more dirt into your engine. Even if the K&N filters gave you more power, it isn't worth the trade-off if there's more dirt getting inside of my engine; K&N can keep their extra 10 horsepower, the magic red oil, their stickers and donate it to the ricers. I'll keep my engine clean.

With all this said I run K&N air filters in all of my cars, lol...
Lmao. That was a pretty good speech though. You should help advertise for those standard airfilters. Keep em' in the fight
Old 07-05-2011, 09:02 AM
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I've read endless debates on filters. You will find anything and everything to back up or shut down every filter. In the end most people just say to just run the cheap paper filters.

I've run K&N on both my TAs, no issues with either ever.
Old 07-05-2011, 09:14 AM
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I don't find them worth the money, personally. Run the cheap paper filter imo. Only reason I own one is it came with my car. They get dirty fairly quick, you need to buy a recharge kit/clean it somewhat frequently.

K&N Filter - $50ish
Recharge Kit - $15ish


Not worth it imo. Buy a cheap paper filter and do some other maintenance to the car with the money you saved!
Old 07-05-2011, 09:16 AM
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Just wondering if anyone has ever tried the Fram AirHog washable air filter?
Old 07-05-2011, 09:58 AM
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On a bolt-on 2000 Z28 which uses a flat-panel filter, I gained nothing on the dyno between a Fram paper, fresh K&N and NO filter. I also think the paper filtered better based on the cleanliness of my MAF housing. However, I do like the conical K&N filters and have used them with little drama...
Old 07-05-2011, 12:45 PM
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I used to be all about K&N filters, especially the cone filters for the noise but after reading the responses in this thread it looks like paper filters for me!
Old 07-05-2011, 01:47 PM
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I run an Amsoil filter which is basically the same as a K&N without the stupid oil recharge. It was cheaper and I've used the same one for about 30k miles with heavy washes every so often.
Old 07-05-2011, 02:06 PM
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I prefer the MAC filter, same material and concept except like $25 total
Old 07-05-2011, 02:13 PM
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I have a K&N solely because I have a clear lid and it looks nice lol
Old 07-05-2011, 03:18 PM
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ive had a k&n for awhile now with no problems.


i like how theyre reusable but theres no real proof they make more power.
Old 07-05-2011, 03:25 PM
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I have a K&N on my car,,, it was on there when i got the car.. I use to use then in the past on all my cars/trucks just so i don't have to keep re buying paper filters that some range from 10 bucks to 25 bucks for a paper filter.. but looking to get the Amsoil air filter to give it a try..
Old 07-05-2011, 03:27 PM
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i have a k&n because it came with my car. i am starting to get annoyed by the wash/dry/oil/dry stuff. i think it would be better to just slap a paper filter in and be done. even if you could save money with the recharge kit, which is debatable, i will probably switch to paper and be done.

also, i never know if im using enough oil or too much... whatever.
Old 07-05-2011, 03:51 PM
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i follow the instructions and let my filter dry for awhile. i havent had any problems with oil getting anywhere.
Old 07-05-2011, 04:00 PM
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drop in k&n, probably no difference. The fipk set up, definatly something there. I bought a stock air box set up and install it. you can feel a difference. they claim 17hp, and i'd believe it.


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