Regarding DROP-IN air filters (oiled vs. dry):

1) Does one capture dirt better?
2) Does one create better air flow?
3) Does one last longer?

Basically, what are the pros/cons of both types?

Thanks!

 

I have both (K&N and HKS) .

K&N - FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS when cleaning. let it dry after oil.
HKS - Clean with water and soap.

I believe that the K&N filters better.

 

(1) It's arguable. Oil captures dirt better, but only if it's applied properly to the media. Too much and excess oil get sucked into the intake tract and can possibly damage you MAF sensor (A common issue on my past Nissan's). Too little and an oiled filter is practically useless -- just hold an unoiled K&N filter up to a light source.

(2) Again, arguable. There have been a lot of tests done, but they're done on brand new filters. An oiled filter, like K&N, will likely do better when new (even properly oiled, you'll see "holes" in the media for air, and dirt, to pass through). But once those holes are plugged up, i'm guessing all filters end up with the same efficiency. Granted, you can clean the K&N at that point.

Which brings me to:

(3) K&N is guaranteed to last a million miles. I've had one run 100k+ miles and it didn't look all that good in the end. OEM-type dry filters will last roughly 10-15k (some last longer, but you need to replace it anyway, or sooner if it gets really dirty). A K&N is going to cost about $120 for two, OEM-type roughly $20. I believe Fram has Air Hogs that cost about $40 for two and is washable, guaranteed up to 250,000 miles.

That said, assuming you drive 120,000 miles and replace filters every 15k:
K&N - $120 + $15 (recharger kit) = $135
OEM - $20 x 8 = $160
Fram - $40

Assuming Fram sells them, it may be your best bet, followed by the K&N (knowing the possible issues with improper oiling).

 

Thanks for the response regarding DROP-IN filters!

Now what about CONE FILTERS to replace the OEM-air boxes? I've heard changing certain things can mess with the computer and actually worsen performance/gas mileage.

Will that be the case if I keep the OEM tubes but replace the air boxes with cones? Do they even sell cone filters for 08 G35 sedans?

 

Im assuming you can get Z tubes, W/ K&N cone filters.

 

I think the Z-tube application only works for the 1st gen G sedans.

Is it possible to keep my stock tubes and replace the air boxes with aftermarket cone filters?

And would doing so mess up my computer in regards to affecting performance/gas mileage?

 

Might be doable, but you'll have to create brackets to hold the cone. Here's a pic to show where the Injen, for example, attaches.

 

Used an oiled K&N in my S14 - hated it and the crap on my MAF so switched to a washable HKS.

 

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/airfilter/airtest3.htm