Is there any difference? I mean the K&N version seems to cost about $45. Where as everyone in the Mother is selling a Generic or knock off version to the original K&N Cone that is HALF the price. Is their REALLY any difference to them?

Both seem to be cleanable, reusable, and exactly the same in looks.

I mean even the one that comes with the Stillen, or JWT, or PRCAI, I mean is their seriously any difference?

Only thing I did see once but lost the link, is a new Cone filter that uses the "Ionic" technology to grab dirt and pollens instead of the standard paper or foam that most cone filters use. Sort of like the same technology that the Sharper Image Ionic Breeze works.

Please give me input or reference data showing the differences of the K&N and Generic if their is any.

Dixit

 

Come on now, no one knows anything on this topic?

 

My opinion is based on having had both the Stillen and JWT HAIs.

The K&N filter on the SI and I believe on the PR CAI are better than the generic JWT filter. The K&N appears to be made of a multiple gauze cloth where as the JWT filter appeared to be some paper material with some kind of coating. My problem with the JWT is that the coating was inconsistent and had areas of large holes that could easily be seen by shinning a flashlight through from the inside. The K&N had even coverage and NO large holes where LARGE dirt particles could slip by.

I say better in that it "appears" to provide better protection against particles of dirt and such from going into the engine. It's probably not too much of a concern if you don't live in dusty desert areas, but I personally wouldn't risk it.

 

About time someone replied to this, thanks ICE. Now the thing is that some of the generics I dont think can be paper cause they claim that it can be cleaned using the K&N filter cleaner and oil charger kit. If it was a paper cone filter, then obviously you could not use the filter cleaner without damaging the paper.

I am still looking for these new "IONIC" cone filters. I think that is the best and the easiest to clean since their is no foam or paper and it would be cleaned just like new everytime.

Dixit

 

i think the difference is very minimal...except maybe one comes with a million mile warranty and the other doesn't.

i've heard about some good things about the metal cone filters too..very very easy to clean.

 

You seen anywhere I can get these metal/ionic cone filters? I cant seem to find it anywhere, I saw it on this one webpage once about a month ago and did not bookmark that bastard.

 

I got the JWT Popcharger.. but i say go with the CAI
Roger

 

what about those heat shields for the cone filters... i was flipping through an older super street and one place had this cone shaped thing that went over the cone filter and was supposed to be like a heat shield and keep hot air out.

 

Flash2k2,

Those Heatshield are mainly used only for the HAI's (Basically the Stillen and the JWT Popcharger). I call them HAI' because it is a HOT AIR INTAKE. In all sense of the word, it really is since it is getting the air from the engine compartment.

What the Heatshield does is shield off the hot air coming from the radiator and the exhaust manifold. They work a great deal in the summer time.

Dixit

 

How exactly do they plan on charging the filter? The Ionic Breeze works by passing air over charged plates which attract the dust and contaminants in the air. I don't see how they can get the same effect with an air filter. Sounds like marketing BS to me, I would go with the tried-and-true K&N. When it comes to particles getting in your engine, performance needs to take a back seat to quality.

 

You know I thought the same thing on the Charging part, but it would be difficult to have it electronically charged via 12V wire. I mean that would be a joke to do. But I swear I saw it for $50 and I should have freagin bought it when I saw it. Now I cant find it anywhere.

Dixit

 

maybe they got threatened with a lawsuit and took their product away??

I stick with the K&N. For an extra $40 bux or so its worth it on a 25K car. Thats an extra tank or 2 of gas.

I really don't know if the others are any good so I'll stick with K&N. If you really want to know, you have to take both to an independent lab to find out for sure.

 

That seems like the best of all worlds, if I get one that is it.
Jason

 

What is a Frankencar intake, I heard of this, but aint seen nothing on it.

 

There are many electrostatic (ionic) air filters for homes and offices that rely only on the movement of air across fibers to produce and keep them charged. They do work, but only if you keep the air flowing all the time. I know, because we have one and hate it (who wants to keep the furnace fan running 24x7).