I would like to know if the Steeda CAI Filter needs oil/lubrication? A mustang garage told me that it was a "Dry one" and doesn't need any oil, but I wanted to make sure. If it does need oil, can you tell me what type do you use?

If it doesn't, what is the maintenance you do on it? Cleaning process?

Thanks

 

It definitely needs to be oiled.

Steeda sells a CAI filter cleaning kit... that's what I use. It comes with a cleaner and a spray oil that is very easy to use. I clean and re-oil my filter every 8k - 10k miles.

 

research how to properly oil a filter before jumping into it though - I've seen some folks just goober the filter pretty badly and clog up their MAF sensor.

 

Yeah after I saw jdmcbride's answer I'll look into in and I found a bunch of people using too much oil, making the filter drip and stuff. I put my CAI put on a few weeks ago so I think I have some time before I have to clean and oil it! I was reading that people do it every oil change so I'm gonna check it next time I change my oil

Thanks

 

Yea, you have to lightly oil it.

That is why the spray oil is so good. I just lightly coat the filter and let it sit a few hours before startring the engine.

 

Yes, it does. It is a re-usable oiled filter.

We have a cleaning kit for it: http://www.steeda.com/store/air-filt...d-mustang.html

How often just depends on how much you drive the vehicle and in what conditions. Some say every oil change, and I would agree to at least checking it every oil change. If you often drive in dusty conditions you may want to clean it sooner.

You'll want to clean it and then lightly coat it with oil (not dripping wet or anything). We recommend leaving it overnight to air dry before re-installing.

Let me know if I can help you with anything else.

 

I actually purchased a second filter (Summit Racing - http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SDA-281-STE100/) along with the kit linked above. I'll take out my filter and insert the clean one, then clean/oil the freshly replaced filter and store it wrapped in a trash bag and placed in a box until I need to swap them out again.

I do this so I'll always have a filter ready to go without having to wait for it to dry thoroughly before oiling, thus reducing any downtime for my car.

 

If your Stang is your DD, then the 2nd filter is the way to go. I've seen too many folks not allow enough time for the filter to thoroughly dry before reoiling. 12 hours drying time can be too short if there's little air flow and/or high humidity.