Performance Air Filters like K&N, harmful?

[Horsepower]

So I was looking for online prices in the US of K&N stuff, then I saw this:

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/index....d=66&Itemid=76

The test results show that paper filter is the best when it comes to the task of limiting particulates to the engine. K&N however let a LOT of particulates in.

To K&N users, have you ever had a problem? What do you guys think of this test (and its revelations)?

What is the effect of particulates getting inside the engine? Will it pose a serious problem or is it something that can be fixed in a snap?

Many thanks in advance.

[uls]

air filters that are supposed to let more air in compared to stock (like K&N) use filter material with bigger holes

nothing to worry about

it takes more than particulates to harm an engine

before (the Libis days) i would drive around with no air filter

one headlight removed, air goes directly into the air intake tube

the faster i drive, the more air gets rammed into the intake, the more power i get (fun )

did that for quite a while

no damage to the engine

put the filter and headlight back when i sold the car

hehe

[jaymd]

wet type filters(oiled like k&n) are harmful not with the engine but with the maf sensor. some people have these problems some dont. pero personally ok yan!

[glntVR]

Hopefully I won't have a problem with mine. Just had one installed w/ my brothers 1.3 verita. K&N filter with their own(speedlab)tube.

[redorange]

I have stopped using K&N filters and prefer a dry element filter like Volant and others that don't require oiling.

[speed unlimited]

I use AEM dryflow synthetic air filter . No need to oil and it has a 99.4 % filtering ability.