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I would like to purchase some K&N 171c filters for my twin cam motor for their ease of removal compared to the stock Harley Filters. Does the K&N filter meet the 5 Micron rating that is essential according to HD?
It is essential not only for the micron rating but also for the by-pass valve. Iirc the by-pass valve opens at 60 pounds which is extremely important when a manufacturer specs 20w-50 oil. Cold mornings and evenings turn the oil into molasses until it warms up so if the by-pass rating is lower I guarantee the engine will circulate unfiltered oil,which over time will shorten the life of an engine.
K&N is reputable and I would assume they would build their filters to Harleys spec. Their air filters don't filter very well but their oil filters look well built.
Does it really matter what the micron rating is if the filter bypasses when the oil is cold or the filter is starting to get restricted anyway? It's only essential to HD so you'll feel like you have to buy it.
I use the K&N on both my bikes and love it just for the reason you state. Easy on and off. Especially if you have an oil cooler.
In my opinion, which isn't even worth the 2 cents, changing the oil is more important than brand of oil or filter. Just use the name brands you like and you'll be fine. So will the engine.
I'm about to order 4 of these (K&N 171C). Bottom line, I change my oil so incredibly excessively in all of my vehicles, that the oil is not able to accumulate much (if any) dirt. My concern is good oil pressure on these engines. Unless someone presents a plausible case that using the K&N and its according ease of installation and removal will have any other unforeseen implications, I think this makes my oil change life easier. I've seen a number here on the forum that say that it actually flows much better, and thus allows for better pressure...
I like the convenience of the 17mm nut on the K&N as well. I'd like to try a Mobil1 filter, but the welded nut makes all the difference to me. I've used Mobil1 filters on my cars/trucks and all of the oil analysis show it worth the extra expense.
Just NEVER use a Fram filter. There are numerous reports of Fram filters disintegrating internally and trashing engines.
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