When it comes to air filters, there is too much information to fit in this small space. But you should know about at least one application out there.
K&N Engineering Inc. is heavily involved in the specialized kind of work built into its air intake units, which are designed to deliver added horsepower. In fact, K&N says it can add up to 30 hp on installations such as the 2003 Mustang SVT. Obviously, these filters are built more for high performance than everyday use. Either way, the company’s attitude is very clear: “If we can’t increase a car or trucks’ horsepower, we won’t build a system for it.”
Of note, the company has designed more than 2,400 air intake systems dating back to 1969. That speaks legions about the firm’s ability to build a high performance filter.
The company says its high flow cotton filtration technology is washable, reusable and built to last for the life of an automobile or motorcycle. These filters consist of four to six sheets of cotton gauze layered between two sheets of aluminum wire mesh. This media is then pleated and oiled to enhance its filtering capabilities and overall performance.
How does it all happen? First, K&N starts with its high-flow technology air filter. Then the company works with the space available once the air box is removed. At this point, if the space is large enough, the company can apply its technology via a large, conical, open element air filter. This provides more surface area for sizeable increases in airflow that turns into horsepower the driver can feel.
K&N intake systems are legal in all 50 states and include a California Air Resource Board (CARB) Executive Order (EO) number that ensures the kit has been tested to comply with emissions standards. In that interest, the company offers a search by part number to determine which cold air intakes are CARB exempt for various vehicles.
This all may sound complicated, but in reality it isn’t, says the company. A typical installation can be completed with a screwdriver, pliers and a ratchet set in 90 minutes or less. Further, the company says it specifically engineers its kits to comply with existing factory holes and mounting points, making installation easier. The vast majority of the company’s cold air intakes do not require any cutting or drilling.
