hey, i was wondering if replacing the stock air filer with a k&n filter will make any difference? also, when should the air filter be changed? thanks

 

A lot of people on here have replaced the stock paper filter with the oiled k&n or green panel filters. I did the same and felt little or no difference in power until mating my stock airbox with the Racing Beat cold air duct which gave me a little more top end and more of a sucking noise when I punch the throttle. I believe the consensus here is that the stock intake is engineered very well and there isn't much power to be gained.

Mazda gives a maintenance schedule that details when to replace stuff on your 8 if you sign up in the "Owners" section on their website. As far as replacing the k&n or green filters, I know my k&n says every 50,000 miles clean and re- oil, but I'll be doing mine probably every 20k or so. Hope that answers your questions.

 

i belive the stock filter should be replaced ever 15000.

yea just repeating, the stock airbox is very good, the k&n will help it breath better than a paper, but after 20000 miles, and you wash/reoil it, it dose not work as good, and a new paper filter would preform better than a k&n used and cleaned at 20000 miles

 

i emailed k&n and this is what they said.....Our stock replacement air filters will see 2-4 horsepower increase........ do you really think this is true, or them just trying to sell their product

 

I'm using a K&N drop in and there is undeniably an increase in throttle response when the car is completely stopped...I get pushed into my seat a bit more on a take off than when using the stock air filter. But if nothing else, do it for the sound...it gives the stock intake a way nicer and louder growl than the stock air filter which subdues the aggressive note the stock box could be capable of. I could never go back to how the stock air filter sounds now.

 

K&N or Green ??? which is better for the 8

 

^^ I'm sure the difference is negligible, they are both cotton filters that must be oiled to perform correctly. I went with k&n because I found it a little cheaper.

 

well i have to change my air filter soon. i noticed this thread has been all about the oiled k&n filter. what about the k&n filter that you throw away when it gets dirty? i'm thinking about getting that filter.

 

well, just to let you guys know, i just replaced the stock filter with K&N....i took it out for a spin.....and i think the engine is more responsive, and and a little more growl.....power kicks in earlier too...like 4300-4500 instead of 5000-5500........i took a right hand turn at a stop light and i tailed it a little without any effort. anyways, so does any of this make sence, or am i imagining it all?

 

i get some push out of my car at about 4k. but im getting ready to put a new air filter in. so we'll see if i get a better kick