| Q: |
What makes the DRYFLOW filter better than oiled cotton-gauze filters? |
| A: |
DRYFLOW filters have several features that make it better than cotton-gauze. The DRYFLOW is independently tested to filter at 99.4% cumulative efficiency using SAE FINE DUST test procedures. Most oiled filters are 93-95% efficient (cumulative) or worse (CLICK HERE for competitor fine dust independent filtration test results). Unlike cotton, the DRYFLOW media will never degrade with normal maintenance (CLICK HERE for independent test results of a new and cleaned DRYFLOW filter). It is also much more durable than cotton gauze—we put it through some severe abuse testing to prove it (CLICK HERE for independent severe abuse test results), and it is easier to clean. |
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| Q: |
What is the DRYFLOW filter made of? |
| A: |
The DRYFLOW filter is made from a single-layer of pre-pleated polyester synthetic filter media with a nylon-reinforced internal cage for added structural rigidity. For conical filters, the base and cap are made from polyurethane, which will not shrink or crack like plastisol, a popular material used by some of our competitors. Our Workhorse Diesel oval filters use deep pleats and Zytel 15% GF plastic for the cap and base. This construction assists in the overall structural rigidity (oval Diesel DRYFLOW filters use 12.5 square-feet of media for maximum flow, approximately 1350 CFM). |
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| Q: |
Will the DRYFLOW filter affect my warranty? |
| A: |
DRYFLOW filters will not void your vehicle warranty. |
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| Q: |
How long will a DRYFLOW filter last? |
| A: |
If you clean and maintain your DRYFLOW filter, it will last for the life of your vehicle. |
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| Q: |
Does AEM Make panel DRYFLOW filters for factory air boxes? |
| A: |
AEM is in the process of manufacturing DRYFLOW panel air filters for OEM air boxes and we anticipate the first release in April 2007. We also manufacture replacement DRYFLOW filters for competitor intake systems, and round DYRFLOW filters for carbureted applications. Click here for a DRYFLOW cross reference chart. |
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| Q: |
I have a competitor intake or AEM intake with an oiled filter. Can I upgrade to the DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
Whether you own an AEM intake system or competitor intake system, we encourage you to upgrade to the DRYFLOW filter. The DRYFLOW delivers the highest filtration efficiency available in an aftermarket performance air filter, and because you do not have to oil it, all the guesswork associated with servicing an oiled cotton gauze filter is eliminated. CLICK HERE for a DRYFLOW filter sizing chart. CLICK HERE for a DRYFLOW cross reference chart for AEM intake systems. |
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| Q: |
Where can I buy a DRYFLOW air filter? |
| A: |
There is a “Buy Now” button on the DRYFLOW Air Filter web page next to the applications on the chart, or you can search our dealer finder for an authorized local, online and mail order AEM dealers. Click here for the dealer finder. |
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| Q: |
How durable is the DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
The DRYFLOW stands up to abuse. We do not use mesh to form the pleats, eliminating any chance of damage to the pleats during installation or if you happen to accidentally drop the filter. DRYFLOW filters use an internal plastic cage that prevents the filter from collapsing if it reaches dust holding capacity. We have performed extensive severe abuse testing of the DRYFLOW (CLICK HERE for independent severe abuse test results), and have even performed severe heat testing to prove it is the most durable filter media available (CLICK HERE for a sever abuse heat testing video). We do not recommend replicating this testing with your DRYFLOW filter, as it will void the warranty. |
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| Q: |
How efficient is the DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
The DRYFLOW is independently tested to filter at 99.4% cumulative efficiency in independent FINE DUST testing. Most oiled filters are 96% efficient (cumulative) or worse (CLICK HERE for competitor fine dust independent filtration test results). Even after cleaning, the DRYFLOW maintains this efficiency (CLICK HERE for independent test results of a new and cleaned DRYFLOW filter). |
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| Q: |
How well does the DRYFLOW filter flow? |
| A: |
We design our DRYFLOW filters to exceed the flow requirements for the size of the engine that we designed the intake for. For instance, the flow requirements of a 5.4L V8 engine with a volumetric efficiency of 80% is 460 cubic feet/minute (CFM) @ 6000 RPM. The DRYFLOW filter we supply for an engine this size flows nearly 1,100 CFM (a 4” x 9” filter), which accomplishes two things. The first is that it allows you to add modifications that increase flow demand without exceeding the flow capabilities of the filter, and it also extends the filter’s service cycle (you don’t have to clean it as often) because it can trap more dirt without sacrificing flow. Rest assured that we have taken flow into account for all of our intake designs and our DRYFLOW filters will deliver more than adequate flow for your vehicle. |
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| Q: |
Does the DRYFLOW filter flow as well as cotton-gauze elements? |
| A: |
Our DRYFLOW filter flows nearly as well as cotton gauze elements. In order to achieve equivalent flow we add more pleats that are ¼” deeper than most of the competition. Please keep in mind that the DRYFLOW has a higher filtration efficiency (99.4% vs. 93-95% average for cotton) in FINE DUST testing and filters particles as small as one micron of particulate in size, vs. two microns or larger for cotton gauze. It will flow well beyond the requirements of your engine (see “How well does the DRTYFLOW filter flow?”). |
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| Q: |
How often should I clean the DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
Frequency of cleaning for your DRYFLOW filter will depend on the conditions in which you drive. As a rule, we recommend that you clean your filter a minimum of every 30,000 miles, inspect it during oil changes and regular service intervals, and clean it if it appears to be reaching its dust holding capacity. If you live in particularly arid, dusty climates or venture off road, we recommend cleaning the filter every 3-5,000 miles. Keep in mind that a clean air filter can increase fuel economy as much as 10% compared to a dirty air filter, and service time for the DRYFLOW filter is only approximately one hour, so you can accomplish it in about the time it takes to change your oil. CLICK HERE for a cleaning demonstration video! |
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| Q: |
How long does it take to clean the DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
The DRYFLOW filter media is hydrophobic, which is a fancy way of saying it does not soak up water. Under normal conditions, cleaning will take about an hour. We recommend that you follow the instructions that are included in our intake systems and DRYFLOW filter replacement filter kits (CLICK HERE for downloadable cleaning instructions). Unlike oiled filters that must be cleaned, then dried, then oiled, then wait for the oil to wick to the material and finally fill in any “gaps” where the oil did not wick, with the DRYFLOW you simply bucket soak it, bucket rinse, shake it out and it will be dry in approximately 30 minutes! CLICK HERE for a cleaning demonstration video! |
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| Q: |
Is it necessary to oil my DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
NO! The DRYFLOW filter NEVER requires filter oil to trap dirt. It filters at a higher efficiency than oiled filters and traps dirt particles as small as one micron without the use of oil. Since the media is synthetic, oil will not wick to the DRYFLOW material and will travel up your inlet. |
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| Q: |
Will frequent cleanings affect the DRYFLOW filters longevity? |
| A: |
No. Unlike cotton-gauze elements that will deteriorate with repeated cleaning cycles, the DRYFLOW’s polyester synthetic media can endure repeated cleanings without degrading the media’s filtration capabilities. If you clean and maintain it properly it will last for the life of your vehicle. |
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| Q: |
What can I do if I am on the trail and need to clean my DRYFLOW air filter? |
| A: |
DRYFLOW filters for all of our intake systems exceed the flow requirements of the engine for extended service and we highly recommend cleaning them per the instructions in our Filter Cleaning System (Part number 21-110). If you feel you must clean the filter and do not have a cleaning system available to you, we suggest hitting it several times to knock the dirt off of the filter pleats and servicing your filter per AEM specifications as soon as possible. If it is absolutely necessary, use fresh water to rinse mud or heavy dirt off of the element from the inside out to ensure the dirt does not wind up inside the filter, and clean the filter per AEM specifications as soon as possible. |
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| Q: |
Can I use a different type of cleaning solution on my DRYFLOW filter? |
| A: |
To ensure optimum performance and filtering capabilities, ONLY use AEM’s Filter Cleaning Solution (part number 21-110). Although the DRYFLOW is incredibly durable, AEM cannot guarantee whether certain solutions will negatively affect the performance of the filter. We do not recommend using solvents or cleaning solutions from other brands, which may void your AEM warranty. CLICK HERE for a cleaning demonstration video! |
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| Q: |
What is the warranty on my DRYFLOW air filter? |
| A: |
AEM warrants that its DRYFLOW Air Filter will last for the life of your vehicle. AEM will not honor this warranty due to mechanical damage (i.e. improper installation or fitment), damage from misuse, accidents or flying debris. This warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of the AEM part. In no event shall this warranty exceed the original purchase price of the AEM part nor shall AEM be responsible for special, incidental or consequential damages or cost incurred due to the failure of this product. Warranty claims to AEM must be transportation prepaid and accompanied with dated proof of purchase. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser of product and is non-transferable. Improper use or installation, use for racing, accident, abuse, unauthorized repairs or alterations voids this warranty. AEM disclaims any liability for consequential damages due to breach of any written or implied warranty on all products manufactured by AEM. Warranty returns will only be accepted by AEM when accompanied by a valid Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Credit for defective products will be issued pending inspection. Product must be received by AEM within 30 days of the date RMA is issued. If you have a warranty issue, please call (310) 484-2322, extension 203 and our customer service department will assist you. A proof of purchase is required for all AEM warranty claims. |
