I need an inexpensive source for an air filter to fit my 1985 300CD with California emissions. In my feeble mind, paper air filters are supposed to cost $4.99, so that they can be changed out often without regret. Not in this case. Prices seem to range between $36 and $57

I run K&N filters in my other vehicles, and I am willing to use one in this application, if someone can share the correct part number. Or, if someone has a spare sitting around, could you measure it and post the dimensions? K&N has a "search by dimensions" feature on their website.

Yes, I have read the threads reporting that oil analysis silica levels increase when using K&N filters. What I haven't seen is someone reporting that silica levels have increased enough to shorten the oil change interval. I am pretty anal about my 5000 mile oil change regimen.

My hope is that if I can discover the correct part number to use, I can avoid the annual expense of a paper filter, while managing the silica increase with my religious 5000 mile oil change regimen. After all, it can't hurt anything if it isn't in the crankcase... Or, in the alternative, I hope to discover a reliable source for these air filters at a more managable cost.

TIA for the help. This is the center of the known universe for keeping the elder Benz alive.

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Alan the Radio Guy
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Amateur Radio Station N7CEU
1985 300CD 199,000 and still rolling