Anyone have a K & N air filter on an M103 or 104?

[Cap'n Carageous]

I'm referring to a cone tapered type that would mount directly to the airflow housing, thus eliminating the original airfilter housing. Even better does anyone know of a kit that would work? Something like this.

[Limited Edition]

I don't have the kind that you are talking about but our E320 has the panel type K&N Filter that fits in the factory airbox. I think it is an economical choice over buying new Mercedes filters all the time.

[Cap'n Carageous]

I think Benzmac had one on the G wagon that he transplanted the 3.2 L into but I can't find the pictures that were posted. I measure the opening as 4 3/8 in. K&N has a filter that is 4 1/2in. I suppose that would work with a spacer of some sort.

[Duke2.6]

I recommend avoiding them. First, published flow tests show that they do not consistently flow more than typical OE type paper filters. Second, if the oil drys out they essentially stop filtering, and there is no way to objectively measure proper oil concentration.

The "resueability" claim is a sham. It makes about as much sense and washing out an old oil filter and putting it back on your engine.

A significant portion of their price is fed back into advertising to hype their supposed benefits.

Duke

[Cap'n Carageous]

I just want to get ride of the original air filter simply because I don't like it's looks. I don't care whether it's better or not.

[psfred]

I see no advantage to them. However, if you do (and I don't care what the engine looks like if it works), remember to make a connection for the clean air/blowby hose to the valve cover. Otherwise, you will either pull a vacuum in the engine or suck unfiltered air in. Not a good idea.

If you oil a K&N sufficiently to get filtration as good as the factory paper filter, you get oil in the intake. Not a problem on a 103, but you can fry the MAS on the 104 -- this is expensive. If the intake stays dry, you are not filtering adequately.

Other benefts are pretty much limited to more airflow at full throttle -- and I never drive at full throttle! Ever -- don't need to as I don't race.

Peter

Peter

[Cap'n Carageous]

I'm open to other brands as well. I just want to get rid of this washtub on top of my engine. This is not a debate about which airfilter is best. It about appearance and being able to access the top of the engine without moving a can the size of a Volkswagon.