Do K&N Air Filters Destroy Your Car’s Engine

Summary

In this video, Scotty addresses concerns about K&N air filters, recommending OEM filters for motorcycles like the Triumph Daytona due to their ease of maintenance. He discusses the emotional attachment people have with cars, advising viewers to prioritize reliable transportation over sentimental value. Scotty also touches on fuel pump issues, emphasizing the importance of replacing fuel pump strainers during maintenance. He comments on Honda's 1.5 turbo engine oil dilution problem, contrasting the Chinese government's response with the NHTSA's lack of action. Lastly, he advocates for outdoor car repair work for safety and health benefits.

Takeaways

• 🔧 K&N air filters are reusable and require regular cleaning and oiling to maintain their effectiveness.
• 🏍 For motorcycles like the Triumph Daytona 675, paper filters are recommended due to their ease of maintenance.
• 🚗 OEM filters are often a reliable choice for vehicles, as they are designed to work well with the specific make and model.
• 💸 Scotty advises against getting emotionally attached to vehicles and emphasizes the importance of practicality for daily transportation.
• 🚙 He suggests that it's fine to have a classic or luxury car as a toy, but it should not be your primary mode of transportation if reliability is a concern.
• 🔧 When replacing a fuel pump, always replace the strainer sock as well to prevent potential clogs and maintain fuel flow.
• 🚗 A weak or slow-feeling car at half tank could indicate a problem with the fuel pump or strainer, which should be checked.
• 🏭 The Chinese government's decision to stop selling Honda vehicles with 1.5 turbo engines due to oil dilution issues highlights the importance of engine quality and longevity.
• 🇺🇸 The NHTSA's focus on safety rather than engine longevity may allow certain engine issues to slide by, which Scotty criticizes.
• ☀️ Working on cars outdoors is safer and healthier due to better ventilation and the reduced risk of fire or carbon monoxide buildup.

Q & A

What is the main concern regarding K&N air filters as mentioned in the script?

The main concern is that K&N air filters, while being reusable and effective at filtering dust, can clog up faster in dusty environments and may require more frequent maintenance. If not properly cared for, they could potentially allow dust particles to enter the engine and cause wear on components like pistons.

Why does the speaker recommend sticking to OEM air filters for a Triumph Daytona motorcycle?

The speaker recommends OEM air filters because they are easier to maintain, as they are simply paper filters that can be easily cleaned or replaced without the need for re-oiling, which is a requirement for K&N filters.

What is the speaker's opinion on people getting emotionally invested in their vehicles?

The speaker suggests that people should not get emotionally invested in their vehicles, as they are primarily transportation devices. However, if the vehicle is a toy or a hobby, then it's fine to indulge in the emotional attachment.

Why might a car feel weak or slower when the gas tank is at half mark, as mentioned in the script?

A car might feel weak or slower when the gas tank is at half because the fuel pump or the strainer that feeds it could be weak or clogged, leading to less pressure and the need for the pump to work harder to draw fuel.

What is the advice given for changing a fuel pump or its strainer?

The advice is to always replace the fuel pump strainer sock when changing the pump, as it's inexpensive and can prevent future clogging issues. It's also recommended to replace all parts affiliated with a system when they go bad to avoid future problems.

What is the difference in the approach between the Chinese government and the NHTSA regarding Honda's 1.5 turbo engines with oil dilution issues?

The Chinese government has taken a more direct approach by stopping the sale of Honda vehicles with the problematic 1.5 turbo engines due to oil dilution, while the NHTSA, focused primarily on safety, may not be as proactive in addressing engine wear issues that could result from oil dilution.

Why does the speaker believe working outside is safer when performing car repairs?

The speaker believes working outside is safer because it allows for better dissipation of gas vapors and chemicals, reducing the risk of fire and exposure to carbon monoxide. Working in an open environment also provides better access to fresh air and sunlight.

What is the speaker's stance on the importance of sunlight and vitamin D for mechanics?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of sunlight and vitamin D for health, suggesting that mechanics should work outside to get natural sunlight, which is a source of vitamin D, and to avoid the health risks associated with working in enclosed spaces.

Why does the speaker receive criticism for his opinions on cars?

The speaker receives criticism because he offers advice that can save people money on car maintenance and purchases, which may go against the interests of those emotionally invested in certain car brands or models.

What is the speaker's view on buying a new BMW for $80,000?

The speaker advises against buying a brand-new BMW for $80,000, as he believes it's not a wise investment considering the significant depreciation over time. He suggests considering cheaper options or buying used cars for those looking for a weekend toy.

Outlines

00:00

🏍️ Motorcycle Air Filter Debate

The paragraph discusses the pros and cons of using K&N air filters versus OEM filters on a Triumph Daytona motorcycle. K&N filters are praised for being reusable and effective at filtering dust particles, but they require regular cleaning and re-oiling to maintain performance. They can clog faster in dusty conditions and if not properly maintained, may lead to increased wear on engine components. The speaker recommends sticking with OEM paper filters for their simplicity and ease of cleaning, suggesting they are more suitable for motorcycles where maintenance is a priority.

05:02

🚗 Car Enthusiasm and Practicality

This section addresses the emotional attachment people have with their cars and the importance of distinguishing between a vehicle as a daily driver and a collector's item or toy. The speaker encourages viewers to be practical when it comes to transportation needs and not to get overly attached to a brand or model. He also touches on the issue of vehicle depreciation, advising against investing heavily in a new car that may lose significant value over time. The speaker also discusses the difference between working on cars as a hobby and as a professional mechanic, emphasizing safety and the importance of working in a well-ventilated environment.

☀️ Outdoor Car Repair Benefits

The final paragraph emphasizes the benefits of performing car repairs outdoors, highlighting the importance of sunlight and fresh air for both health and safety. The speaker advocates for working outside to avoid the build-up of harmful gases and chemicals that can occur in enclosed spaces like garages. He also mentions the psychological benefits of working in an open environment, such as improved mood and reduced risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. The paragraph concludes with a call to action for viewers to subscribe to the speaker's channel for more car repair videos.

Keywords

💡K&N air filters

K&N air filters are a brand known for their reusable and washable air filters designed for vehicles. In the video, the discussion revolves around their effectiveness and maintenance, particularly in dusty environments. The video suggests that while K&N filters are good at collecting dust when properly oiled, they can clog up faster and require more frequent cleaning compared to paper filters, which are recommended for motorcycles like the Triumph Daytona 675 mentioned in the script.

💡OEM

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which refers to parts or accessories that are made by the same company that manufactured the vehicle. In the context of the video, the host recommends sticking with OEM filters for a Triumph Daytona because they are reliable and low-maintenance, unlike aftermarket options like K&N filters that may require more attention.

💡Pistons

Pistons are crucial components in an engine that move within the cylinders and are responsible for the mechanical motion that powers the vehicle. The video script mentions a concern that K&N filters might allow dust particles to reach the pistons, potentially causing wear and reducing engine life. This highlights the importance of proper filtration to protect engine components.

💡Clogged air filters

A clogged air filter is a common issue where the filter becomes filled with dirt and debris, reducing its ability to allow air into the engine. The video discusses how K&N filters, if not properly maintained, can clog up and potentially lead to engine performance issues. The host suggests that in dusty conditions, the filters may require more frequent cleaning or replacement.

💡Fuel pump

The fuel pump is a component that moves fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. In the video, the host addresses a question about car performance issues when the gas tank is half full, suggesting that a weak fuel pump or strainer could be the cause. A weak fuel pump may not provide enough pressure, leading to reduced performance, which is a common maintenance concern discussed.

💡Strainer

A strainer is a filter that prevents debris from entering the fuel pump. The video mentions that a clogged strainer can lead to a weak fuel pump performance, as it restricts the flow of fuel. The host advises always replacing the strainer when servicing the fuel pump to avoid future clogging and related performance issues.

💡Oil dilution

Oil dilution refers to the mixing of fuel with engine oil, which can reduce the oil's viscosity and effectiveness as a lubricant. The video script touches on a concern about Honda's 1.5 turbo engines having oil dilution problems, which could lead to engine wear and reduced lifespan. The discussion highlights the importance of engine oil integrity for vehicle reliability.

💡NHTSA

The NHTSA stands for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a US government agency responsible for regulating vehicle safety standards. The video discusses the NHTSA's focus on safety rather than engine longevity, suggesting that they may not be as proactive in addressing issues like oil dilution that affect engine life but not directly related to safety.

💡Capitalism

Capitalism is an economic system where trade, industry, and the means of production are privately or corporately owned. In the video, the host contrasts the Chinese government's ability to stop the sale of certain engines due to oil dilution issues with the NHTSA's approach, implying that capitalist interests might influence the response to such issues in the US.

💡Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps in the absorption of calcium and is synthesized by the body in response to sunlight. The video script includes a comment about the benefits of working outdoors and getting sunlight, which is a natural source of Vitamin D. The host suggests that working outside can be healthier due to the exposure to sunlight and the reduced risk of indoor hazards like carbon monoxide.

Highlights

K&N air filters are good and reusable, but they require maintenance and can clog faster in dusty environments.

For motorcycles like the Triumph Daytona 675, paper filters are recommended for their ease of cleaning and replacement.

Scotty advises sticking to factory air filters for their reliability and low maintenance requirements.

People can get emotionally attached to their vehicles, which can cloud their judgment on their practicality and reliability.

Scotty suggests that if a car is a toy, it's fine to indulge, but for daily transportation, reliability should be a priority.

When a car feels weak or slower at half tank, it could indicate a problem with the fuel pump or strainer.

It's important to replace the fuel pump strainer sock when servicing the fuel pump to prevent clogging.

Scotty emphasizes the importance of changing all related parts when servicing a vehicle to avoid future issues.

The Chinese government's decision to stop selling Hondas with 1.5 turbo engines due to oil dilution problems is discussed.

Scotty explains that the NHTSA focuses on safety rather than engine longevity, which may allow certain engine issues to slide.

Working on vehicles outdoors with proper ventilation is safer and healthier compared to working in an enclosed space.

Scotty shares his preference for working outdoors to avoid the buildup of harmful gases and for the health benefits of sunlight.

The video concludes with a reminder to subscribe and turn on notifications for future car repair videos.

Transcripts

rev up your engines, q Anna says Scotty I saw a video said K&N

filters allow dust particles to critical engine components and actually grind the

Pistons what do you think about it, should I stick with OEM for my Triumph

Daytona, here's the thing, K&N air filters they're good air filters

they're reusable, you can clean them and re oil them, they have to have oil put into

them to collect the dust, well they filter quite well, but it also

will clog up a lot faster in dusty environments, you have to decide whether

you're gonna take care of them or not, if they

get all clogged up and pieces start coming off yeah it'll wear things out

faster basically, you got a Triumph Daytona 675 it's a motorcycle, really for

them the paper filters are best because their just paper, and they get dirty you

take them out whack them get the dust off and vacuum or have a spare one and

they're so easy to change on those things anyways

a little box comes in and out, I'd stick to the factory ones you

know you they work just as well, and you don't have to think about them getting

all clogged up with dust and stuff getting

inside them, John simmon says I don't know why people keep getting mad at

Scotty saying this car is bad or this isn't good,

he wants you to save money elsewhere and he's absolutely right, okay yeah people

do get mad at me, because some people get emotionally involved in vehicles, and

then they say, oh he's nuts that's a great vehicle, I even had a guy once in England

tell me how great Jaguars are and they don't break, and oh they're wonderful

cars you don't know what you're talking about yeah I laughed at that one, I mean

who knows what the truth is on the Internet,

but unfortunately people get emotionally involved in their cars, don't ever do

that if it's your transportation device now if it's your toy that's perfectly

fine go right ahead and have a 68 Jaguar that your toy and you polish it,

and you take it out on Sundays when it's not raining you know, it's a toy it's fun

it's a completely different thing, than getting something that you're gonna

drive every day that's gonna be dependable transportation, you know it

all depends on what you want, like earlier today I even told a guy go

ahead and buy the standard transmission BMW, because hey if you can get one for 5

grand and you want a toy for the weekend why not, I got customers to do that and

they have fun with it, but you don't go buy brand-new

bmw for $80,000 and then find out when it's 8 years old it's worth $8,000, yeah I'm

trying to help the average guy out here benny,

wherever my gas tank is at half mark my car feels weak or slower, is that the

sign of a bad fuel pump, it often is or the strainer that feeds the fuel pump,

the fuel pump is there and it's got this little strainer sock that's a filter, and if

either of those are weak, when you get low there's less pressure of the

gasoline, and so it has to suck more and it usually is that the internal fuel

pump or the sock is going bad, any time you're changing that pump always put a

new sock on it, cuz you never know if it's clogged inside, and the things cost

like five six bucks, if you don't change that it's dumb, because then if it's

somewhat clogged up you'll have the same problem and if you got to pull the gas

tank to do the job, you're gonna be kicking yourself, anytime you've got a

job where you see something is affiliated with it and you got to do a lot

of work, change the whole thing, do it yourself you're under there cursing and

swearing ripping those parts apart, so always use all the parts that are

affiliated with that system when they go bad, ernie say scotty please make a

video why Honda doesn't want to recall their 1.5 turbo engines oil dilution

problems, and why the NHTSA is not pressuring Honda, unlike the

Chinese government that stopped them selling them

because of it, well here we go capitalism, the Chinese have a communist

government they can do whatever they what, and

if they see they're getting bad engines sent over they can stop it you know, they

obviously have a problem with the oil dilution and it's gonna wear the engines

out faster, you get gasoline in the oil, it's gonna make the engine not lubricate as

well and won't last as long, it's only common sense, but the problem with the

NHTSA is that's safety, they're mainly interested in safety stuff, an

engine that wears out earlier, a lot of times they let that stuff slide by, I

know they shouldn't but a lot of times they do because, hey honda is a big

corporation they make a lot of cars and make a

lot of money, I'm sure they've got a little Lobby in Washington like

everybody else does, you know I think it's cool that the Chinese stopped them

because of those engines, I think that's that's interesting you know, Xavier

Rodriguez I think Scotty is smart because he works outside and gets Sun

and that's a idea, well you know that's actually a

very valid point, I sometimes get mechanics yell at me and saying Scotty

you can't do that, you can have a fire if you do this or that, and I say no you can

do a fire because you're working inside a building in a sealed atmosphere where

gas vapors build up, chemicals build up and you can have a fire, I work

outside and I have a giant fan, so all of it dissipates I've never had any

fire problems because of that, it's all out in the open, and if you are out in

the open you're gonna feel better, you don't feel enclosed, you don't have to worry

about carbon monoxide building up, cuz even if you have a garage that's got

tubes that you stick on the exhaust that's supposed to make the exhaust go

outside and not stay inside, and there's always some leakage they don't seal

correctly, a lot of times guys are too lazy and don't put them on, it's much

better working outside, than it is working inside, and yeah we all need some

vitamin D there's no arguing with that, and the best way to get it is to stand

out in the Sun, so if you never want to miss another one of my new car repair

videos, remember to ring that Bell