Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Reusable air filter 'vs paper air filter

[Israelson]

I know in gasoline engines the reusable K&N type filters can make performance improvements does the same apply to diesel? Are there advantages and/or disadvantages of one over the other? Will the "Filter Minder" guage still work with a reusable type filter?

Thanks in advance.

-Erik

 

[illflem]

You might just open a can of worms here Erik, there has been much debate on whether K&N filters let too much dirt though. I personally have had zero problems with them and a vast improvement in air flow over a stock paper element. Yes the filter minder still works but likely won't move unless you are heavily modified with a K&N whereas a stock filter might pull down the minder all the way. As with any product a K&N must be installed and maintained correctly as a specified by the manufacturer if it's going to work right. It seems to me the main problem with K&Ns is improper use.

 

[Hogan]

I've run K&N panel filters in the past, but don't anymore. It was maintained properly and all, but the problem was it didn't fit like an OEM filter and there was a slight gap along one of the edges, this allowed a bit of dirt to make its way past the filter. Not wanting to worry about poor fit along with increased dirt particles being passed through the filter, I've gone back to paper elements. Haven't noticed any drop in power going back to paper, either. Nope, didn't dyno, but if the truck does what I want then what does it matter if it's making 5hp less if you don't notice it? I have pictures online of my dirty intake if anyone's interested.

 

[Extreme1]

The biggest restriction on a stock air cleaner system is the boot that goes from the air box to the inner fender. Remove it and the filter minder won't move until you get a lot more hp.



For a really good filter, do a search on BHAF (stands for Big Honking Air Filter). They flow enough air for about 99% of the trucks on this forum.



Personally, I don't like to mess around with a cleanable filter, I'd rather replace every couple years.

 

[JerryB]

I have heard from a friend who works in a Dodge shop, that if you use an oiled filter, be careful not to over-oil it. He has seen cases of oil gunking up the aftercooler.

 

[rjones]

I ve been running K&N since I got my truck and the silcon count in the oil was 0% and like all the sales pitches talking about the the intake hose having a dirt build up from using A K&N mine was as clean as it was when I first put it on..... about 20,000 miles

 

[illflem]

Originally posted by Extreme1





Personally, I don't like to mess around with a cleanable filter, I'd rather replace every couple years.

Unless you're in extremely dusty conditions a K&N only needs to be serviced every 100k. You could probably buy a new one every time and be money ahead vs. a paper one.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

TDR#37, p. 26. Under 500 hp, the stock filter is fine, just remove the collar to the fender.

 

[illflem]

Joe, I've read that but have a hard time figuring out how it could be when the paper filter pulls the minder down all the way and a oiled filter it doesn't move it at all.



Is there some law of physics I'm missing here?



If the minder gets sucked down all the way how do you know when to change the filter besides guessing?

 

[Extreme1]

Bill, good question. But in this case, empirical data supports the situation. The stock airbox with a reasonably clean paper filter and the fender duct removed will not pull the minder down.



Install the duct and it pulls down.



Install a K&N, leave the duct in place, and the minder won't pull down.



I'm no fluids expert so I won't pretend to know what's going on but the stock filter/missing fender duct is even cheaper than a K&N.



And my BHAF looks way cooler than a K&N sticker!

 

[Israelson]

My decision for now...

I was warned this is another loaded topic.



I have loved using K&N filters in my previous gassers but for now have decided to stay stock.



REASONS:



No engine mods requiring increased air flow.



As I read in a TDR article, thousands of hours and dollars dodge and/or cummins have spent testing these engines it seems if a cloth filter were better they would have used one.



My filter minder with the stock filter and the fender hose does not move (wonder if it's working).



The increased air flow of cloth seems only possible from increased gaps and openings in the material which would allow larger dirt particles to pass.



Possible for oil to line or clog intercooler and/or turbo but there may also be a benefit to lubricating bearings in the turbo as well!



Maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but for now I'll need more reason to use a cloth filter even after paying $33. 00 for a replacement paper air filter from Dodge.



Erik Israelson