My .02 on the subject.... Like Rich said above. You won't notice performance gains out of an aftermarket filter because they are not going to signifigantly increase air flow. To the factories the air filter is a place they can cut cost. They use less dense foams and materials so their air flow is really good but they also have a higher probability that contamination can get through which can be devestating. The quality aftermarket filter companies don't cut cost, they use better foams (read more expensive) and better adhesives. So they are going to offer as good or better air flow than OEM, they will last longer and most importantly they will reduce the probability of contamination getting by. This is a good subject for me as I have been reasearching this for the last few months because BillyWho will be releasing a top quality air filter within the next few months. We will be marketing it for what it is... It will offer as good or better air flow than OEM, they will last longer and most importantly they will reduce the probability of contamination getting by. And they will be cheaper than OEM or aftermarket.
If you want more power from the intake system make sure it is jetted properly, if you want to take precautions to maximize engine life, get a good filter.
Rich, you wanna flow test some filters?
