Hey guys,
wanted to ask - how often do you clean ALTA's foam filter on average (or any foam filter for that matter)? I'm at 4500 miles since installing the ALTA's filter, and the filter looks very clean for now.

Also, is there a DIY on how to clean the foam filter? Thanks!!!

 

I would clean it once every 6K or so, but I live in a dirty state too. Depending on the dust and such in your climate, I would clean it anywhere between 5-8K.

 

Just make sure to clean it with foam filter cleaner! The K&N cleaner will eat through the foam.

 

I rotate mine 90deg each oil change (3k miles don't ask, I'm ****), and then clean it at 10k. You can pick up a good foam cleaning kit at any motorcycle shop.. DO NOT BUY THE K&N or COTTON FILTER CLEANERS

 

When I cant see the white lettering on my air filter, its time to clean!!

 

I have heard from some folks that the dirtier it is the better it filters. All that dirt gets soaked in the oil and increases the surface area that catches stuff. I have never seen proof of this but those who told me this are folks I trust.

 

That's not true, I believe that I've heard this from K&N before too. The dirt would absorb the oil in the filter, drying out the filter, and make it not filter as much dirt, since the oil is what attracts dirt.

 

Thanks, but why shouldn't you use K&N kit? It's just a bottle of sticky oil and degreaser for cleaning, no?

 

Ive heard the k&n oil, not the cleaner can be used on the ALTA foam. Is this correct? Someone also told me simple green can be used to clean it. Is THIS true?

 

Usually clean it when the red foam color starts to turn black (around every oil change)

I used the Uni foam filter cleaner and spray oil
1. Shake off any excess dirt, etc.
2. Spray the outside and inside with the cleaner and wait about 5min
3. Rinse off with water
4. Allow to air dry
5. Spray on the oil (careful to avoid the portion that connects to your intake since the oil may cause it to slip off)
6. You're good to go....

 

One point to note... when you clean the filter, it's best to rinse inside-out. That keeps from embedding the dirt farther into it. Using hot water works really good, too. But not everyone wants to use their kitchen sink for this.

 

Anyone?

 

You should not use K&N filter cleaner or oil on ANYONES foam filters. The filter will start to come apart if you use the incorrect cleaner. Use FOAM filter cleaner and oil only.

 

mineral spirits is much cleaper as a cleaner than the brand name spray cans.

 

(perhaps slightly emparassed) I've used the K&N cleaner on my Alta with no ill effects for 3 years, but I rinse THOROUGHLY with very warm water in our slop sink. I wash when the filter looks dirty, or at 10k. I weare those nitrile gloves, and when oiling I make sure the oil gets spread around really thin, then blot/wipe with paper towels. You don't want too much oil getting vaporized and collecting places it shouldn't be.