Independent lab air filter test?

[moparguy]

Independent lab air filter test

"Opinions are what we reach when we're tired of thinking about something" (author unknown) .



For as long as I've been a member of the TDR, there's been discussion on which air filter is best. Most of the positions we've staked out were based on limited observations.



What if we commissioned a study of the air filters we're using and put the issue to rest once and for all (at least till next time). If one of the members was in a position to help that would be great. But if not, and a fund could be established to pay for a study, I'm willing to make a contribution.



I would like to know the efficiency of the stock filter, K&N (both stock replacement and cone style 0880), Amsoil and the latest entry, mopar something or other, filter. Efficiency being a percentage of smaller size particles actually captured at various flow rates.



Flow capacity at higher boost/hp levels.



Durability, resistance to heat and water damage.



I considered making this a part of the Big Honking Air Filter thread, but hope it'll get more exposure here.



As far as how to go about this project, my first thoughts are we need to define the scope of the test, determine how to pay (could the TDR org. help?), can anyone call any markers in or do test in house?



If we gotta pay, who can set up the mechanism to make this possible. We need a place to send our contributions once we know what it'll cost.



So, ..... anyone else think this is worthwhile. Anyone wanna take on the task of overseeing the project.



Thanks, Ronnie



ps, if not the proper forum, please move.

 

[Bob Beauchaine]

I for one think it's a good idea and would be willing to make a contribution.

Happy Trails

 

[KatDiesel]

I would contribute. Do you just want to test the filters themselves..... or test them on actual trucks/conditions?



Just wondering.



Might as well do them all..... Amsoil, AFE, K&N (stock and Re0880), your monster filter, and any other filter anyone is using.

 

[John_Barks]

Count me in.

 

[moparguy]

Hummmmm

Well now we're into setting the parameters for the test.



I guess the filters would need to be tested in the filter housings, or as they would be installed on the truck.



I could see the on truck test getting into a expensive proposition. We may need to set the guidelines to get just the basic data needed to give us the information needed to make informed decisions.



Also, I think I've seen some OEM types post here in the past, you guys got any ideas, advise?



Ronnie



edit; my goof, this should be in the Lab Test thread, please move, thanks



Ronnie

 

[KatDiesel]

Gonna try

Gonna try to merge the thread. . hope it works.



It worked... pretty nifty.

 

[NVR FNSH]

SAE has a standardized test - not sure if it for filter media only or if it tests the air box seal as well. I think it is filter media only. I believe that K&N & Amsoil both have run this test.



Brian

 

[EMDDIESEL]

I would be interested too, but my guess for a real lab to test all these filters would be in the niegboorhood of SEVERAL thousand dollars. I think we wil need ALOT of people to contribute.

 

[moparguy]

Thats right, lots of people

EMDDIESEL, couldn't agree more. But we've got a lot of folks on board here. Question is, is there sufficient interest to fund the lab testing.



At $10 or $20 each, 500 or prehaps 1000 of us can generate quite a bit of cash.



Hopefully someone has a feel for the type expense involved, as well as a respected lab that's capable of doing the test.



We'll see.



Ronnie

 

[SteveH]

K&N, Amsoil, and all the others including Fleetgard are so sure that each of them has the best filter, wouldn't it be proper for each of these companies to ante up the first big dollar donations for the "independent" test and see who really does come out on top. The winner would have some braggin rights that actually meant something to us. With all our members, surely we have members that know someone in each of the major players' companies. I would switch filters to the winner in a second, unless it was Amsoil (I'm already using theirs)

Great idea!