Cleaning AFE

[scottmcd]

How long does it take to clean the AFE filter snd get it back to driving condition. Only got 4 days left before trip, and got alot of things to do before leaving... TIA... Scott

 

[jwilliams3]

You should get it done before then.

Have these on hand:

1. Hair dryer or dehumidifier

2. Soft brissled paint brush

3. AFE cleaning kit

 

[Punkineater]

The instructions specifically state not to use a hair dryer for drying the element after cleaning. A regular fan and air drying is recommended.

 

[jwilliams3]

Yeah I know that. I also stated dehumidifier for those who want to let it sit overnight or for several hours (I have done both).

They dont want you going over board.

But a little warm air wont hurt anything.

On a hot summer day I can guarantee you at an idle that thing is sucking some real HOT air!!

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

TDR #47, p. 82.

 

[Punkineater]

Yeah I know that. I also stated dehumidifier for those who want to let it sit overnight or for several hours (I have done both).

They dont want you going over board.

But a little warm air wont hurt anything.

On a hot summer day I can guarantee you at an idle that thing is sucking some real HOT air!!

I'm not attempting to start an argument, but that comparison is extremely out of context. For starters, the filter is generally not soaking wet from water during normal service. Secondly, the air being sucked in even on a hot day is not as hot as say a 2000 watt blow dryer. Lastly, it's the wet condition of the filter element combined with the high heat of the blow dryer that "may" damage the element. I would just rather not take chances and usually let it sit overnight with a fan to airdry. It's all personal choice and everyone may do it differently so this is just my $. 02.

 

[jwilliams3]

You know they make adjustable hair dryers?

I learned this after getting married.

You can choose your own heat setting.



:-laf

 

[Punkineater]

You know they make adjustable hair dryers?

I learned this after getting married.

You can choose your own heat setting.



:-laf

Touche' :-laf

 

[Cattletrkr]

I usually clean mine before I start changing oil and doing other regular maintenance. Every now and then I stop and bang it gently on the workbench to knock the accumulated water off the bottom and continue working. After an hour or so I re-oil it and away I go. There is a ceiling fan in the shop over the workbench that helps some. It might not be perfectly dry, but the oil covers nicely and I've never ended up with a blank spot. Done this with both my KN and AFE. Funny, now that I think of it, my AFE filter is now red for some reason :-laf

 

[Wiredawg]

I clean mine in the evening, let it set all night in the garage w/ a regular fan blowing low speed and next day it's all dry and ready to be oiled. Been having K/N filters for 15 years and AFE for the past 2. No problems yet.



No flames coming from me, but I wouldn't use blow dryer on it. Just my two cents, but do what you think works.



Cheers, Wiredawg

 

[AK RAM]

Wondering if you got all the dirt out (because it never looks clean again), wondering if you let it dry long enough, wondering if you over oiled it, wondering if you under oiled it... ... . no thanks. I'll just buy a new one once a year for peace of mind. They are cheap enough and not worth the hassle.

 

[Wiredawg]

AK Ram:



Valid points. I've had K/N for 180K mi of 191K mi on Toyota 4wd I had, 102 K mi on 96 Ram I had, 62K miles on my 02 Ram 3500 and 45K on wife's 03.



I live in real dusty invironment, but have not had problem thoroughly cleaning it. I've never had over/underoiling problem as indicated by resisdue free and dust free turbo. I use tube to oil mine and use steady pressure and motion oiling. The dye in the oil helps verify even coating. I do believe my oil type filter give me extra protection and lifetime service.



Again, I don't blame anyone who doesn't want the bother with air filter maintenance. I know folks who are just as happy w/ the stock setup and ones who swear by the BHAF. Everyone has their favorite.



Happy Trucking, Wiredawg

 

[GWoody]

I keep a spare that way it can set for days if needed to dry and then I oil it and put in a bag till next filter change.