The HD wire mesh/paper air filter element that's on my 2005 883 says 'do not oil', but someone told me it's a HD contradiction. true?

The filter looked pretty dirty - fairly black with grime. I washed it, and it really doesn't look a whole lot cleaner.

Really thinking about simply replacing it - is this a wash it for lifetime filter or should it be changed (this has 15K miles on it).

 

Replace it with a k and n. Then you can wash and oil it. The screaming eagle filter is not made to be washed and reoiled. .

 

15,000 i would give her a New one.
if it's a SE filter set-up make sure you get the correct one and Not the stock filter.

 

The Part number on the back plate of the filter is 29044-048, and has the bar and shield elblem.

But, the K&N replacement for the 2004-2009 Sportster says it replaces OEM 29331-04.

I'm confused....

 

the Part # 29331-04 is stock

that number you gave should be Part # 29044-04B that is a SE filter

 

YEP, I JUST FIGURED THAT OUT - IT IS AN SE FILTER. So I guess I finished it off by washing it....sounds like it really needs a new one now.

Mail order?

 

Dealer price 29.95 for SE filter
Ride Safe

 

Thanks a lot, RATROD.

Is K&N worth the extra dough (almost twice...)? notable difference in performance?

 

K&N is the way to go - they'll last as long as your bike does, so you'll probably save money later on. Plus air flow goes way up, and I would think the oiled filter protects better than dry. One thing to note - the filter should come oiled and ready to go, but in the future when you clean it, don't over-oil it - the oil will suck into the motor and may cause issues. I don't know if this is true on a bike, but my buddy's truck blew up after the oil screwed up the air sensor in the intake... just somethin to be aware of.

 

lets see, paper fitler, add water, holy smokes, it turns to crap.....imagine that...