I use a mild dishwashing liquid and water mixed together then spray it clean with water under pressure such as a garden hose, let dry and then apply k and n oil. Works great everytime and I'm still using a 5 year old filter.
their website will give best directions, but water will work, then treat with k and n filter oil
If it is a stock paper filter, no it needs replacing, if it is a k&n high flow, yes, clean it with k&n filter cleaner and rinse with gentle running water let it dry and oil the filter with k&n filter oil.
Most air filters are very similar in quality but K&N is not bad. They may be a little pricey but, they usually come with a sticker so you can show off Only if maintained properly. If you do not keep it clean and oiled it is like not having a filter.
take it out and put in a k@n filter take the charcole filter that sits abouve air filter out for better air flow
K&n
According to K&N cleaning instructions: 1. Tap the element to knock off any loose debris and brush lightly with a soft bristle brush. 2. Either spray K&N Air Filter Cleaner liberally onto the filter element and let soak for 10 minutes, or the filter can be rolled or soaked in a shallow pan of K&N Air Filter Cleaner and removed immediately to soak for 10 minutes (leave the filter in the pan only long enough to saturate the filter). 3. Rinse the filter from clean side to the dirty side (to push the dirt out rather than further into the filter) with low pressure tap water. 4. Shake off excess water and let the filter air dry. All other drying methods may damage the filter and will void the filter warranty. EITHER 5a. After the filter is totally dry, spray K&N Air Filter Oil along each pleat, once only, with the nozzle 3" (7.5 cm) away from the filter. Don't over-oil. OR 5b. After the filter is totally dry, squeeze K&N Air Filter Oil along each pleat, once only. Don't over-oil. 6. Apply K&N Filter Oil carefully to any visible white spots and let stand for 20 minutes. Then wipe the gasket/sealing surface clean with clean cloth or paper towel, prior to installation, to remove excess oil. DON'T over-oil the filter. Over-oiling can interfere with proper engine and component performance. If over-oiling occurs (oil is draining or dripping from the filter after standing 20 minutes), K&N recommends that the cleaning and oiling process, as above, .be repeated
I use the fram 2740 air filter in the air cleaner.Auto zone stocks this and yes other brands work fine like wix,purelator etc.This is the only air filter on the truck.Keep in mind each brand has a different part # and prefixs based on this.I do not suggest going to a k/n unless you just want to spend alot more and have to clean and oil this brand specifically.
at autozone or advance autoparts
http://www.knfilters.com/search/appsearch.aspx Get K&N its better K&N Part Number for Air Filter E-0940
pop off the lid on the air box, then drop in a new filter...k&N are the best
my hum was solved by cleaning the K & N filter i use. the air flow was restricted and the engine was pulling air past the seal. if you use a disposable air filter, replace it. also check for foreign debris anywhere along the intake path and remove it.
From what I've heard , your friend is right . I drive a 1995 Ford Explorer XLT and have used nothing but the Motorcraft engine air filters . When I take a flashlight and look at the mass air flow wires they are still shiny clean and that has been over 17 years now