K&N oiled Air Filters vs. dry filter???

Question

Ok so i currently have a K&N cold air intake on my 2001 Nissan Xterra. Ive been hearing rumors about how the oil used in the filter is bad for your car and i also have a feeling its not filtering very well.

I am wondering if it would be better to replace the filter (part # RX-4750) with a dry filter?

Does AEM make a universal DRY FLOW filter that will fit on my already installed intake?

Also what are the stats. for k&n vs. others? (CFM)

Please help out as best you can and only useful answers PLEASE!

thanks

Answer 1

Stick with the K&N filter. as far as gunk around the filter houseing you will get that some times, don't worry about it.

I"ve been useing a K&N filter on my ford ranger for years & it realy helps with gas mileage & power.

Answer 2

K&N filters will not harm your engine.  If they are way over-oiled and the excess oil makes it into your intake you may get some oil smoke.  That would take a lot of excess oil.  Clean K&N filters with their filter cleaner, let dry and re-oil per the directions.  I have these on all my vehicles and have had for years.  They filter and flow way better than the stock paper elements.  Read up on how to use them on the K&N web site.

Answer 3

Big debate, The oiled air filter does cause problems with some vehicles equipped with a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. It can cover the sensing portion with oil and dirt. This can cause the sensor to malfunction and increase emissions and potentially damage the catalyst. I am a K&N fan for high performance high flow filter systems for off-road. The engines are rebuilt nearly every other run (50-100 miles). The damage that may occur if the filter allows too much dirt to pass will be internal in the engine and could cause premature failure of the piston rings, cylinders and bearings.

It's buyer beware and now you've been given some facts.

Check the specs of the K&N against the OEM as far as the size of particulates allowed. (# of microns)