K & N Filters-- Yes or No

[tinter101]

I know there is a lengthy thread on this subject but it got
confusing so I'm asking just for C43 owners that use K&N
filters to respond. I've got (2) brand new filters sitting on
my work bench and I need to know what to expect after I
install them or if I should install them. Are the problems with
these only after they have been cleaned and re-oiled or
right out of the box? I look to the wisdom of my favorite club
for the answer. Thank you in advance.

[jnolte]

i wouldent mess with it. Gains are like nothing and its not worth haveing to spend 350+ on a new MAF.

I used to like them, but they dont work as well on MBs

[CKlasse]

Try AFE instead.

[tinter101]

Where do I find AFE filters? Why are they better than OEM ones?

[speedybenz]

I have them on my C43, no problems. I say go for it.

Just dont over oil the thing.

If you live in dusty area or drive where there is lots of dirt, dust, then I would stick with stock filter unless you make sure to really do a nice job of oiling your K&N filter.

I have run them on my trucks in very dirty areas and dirt roads with no problems.

Jeff

[KWiK]

No

[audiophile]

that's a big NEGATIVE. i thought it would help my hp or my mpg, but not worth the the maf going out on you.:bored:

[CKlasse]

Originally posted by tinter101
Where do I find AFE filters? Why are they better than OEM ones?

AFE is formed by former founder of KNN for the reason that KNN voids factory warranty. Often we joke around about AFE = All Former Employee.

I have access to AFE. Whats your car?

[Scotty-C190E]

Don't expect anything but bragging rights at street races from your sticker that you get with purchase.

[tinter101]

Thanks for all the input. More no votes than yes means I
will not use these. The clincher is that there seems to be no
real benefit. I guess I'm surprised that Performance Products
magazine would offer these for Mercedes with the potential
for problems. Thanks to all.

[tinter101]

CKlass,

I've got a "98 C43. How much for the AFE filters?

[Brabus]

I have K&N in my Turbo... works well IMO

[Scotty-C190E]

Hmm, well I think the more air your engine demands then the more benificial the K&N would be. If you have a stock small engine, don't bother.

[slowpoke]

are we talking about the cone shaped filters? or replacment filters that go into the stock airbox? I am planning to buy a replacement filter as it's cheaper in the long run (its reusable as opposed to buying an OEM filter that you need to change regularly)

[Eurosport]

i have it on and no problems

[Denlasoul]

i got them too, no problems.

[kameraguy]

When my MAS went out, it had an oily residue all over the grate. I suspect it came from the K&N. I didn't oil mine, just used it stock from the box. It seems experiences with K&N are luck of the draw. After switching back to the stock filter, I honestly don't notice any big difference. At least not enough to risk killing the MAS.

Well, that's my experience anyway.

edit: oops, forgot y'all using the V8. Maybe the MAS is protected better or the K&N for the V8 isn't as oily as the ones for the I6.

[josh k]

I've never had problems with my K&N's (knock on wood). The only time I've ever had to replace the MAF was before when I still had the stock paper filters, and I have over twice as many miles on the car with the K&N's