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Old 04-04-2008, 11:29 PM   #18 (permalink)
LostCause
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Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: California
Posts: 504

Thunderbird - '96 Ford Thunderbird
90 day: 27.75 mpg (US)
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I think I paid ~$8 when I replaced my air filter. I would like to see the result of your cleaning attempts on a paper filter, though.

Generally, I think the OEM knows best when it comes to maintenance schedules. My manual claims a 30,000 service interval for replacing filter elements. Unless you drive in an extremely dusty environment, I don't see the need or benefit of frequent replacements.

Apart from lowering the service interval, you could save money by modifying your airbox to accept a cheaper filter element. Almost all modern elements are rectangular in cross section nowadays and I doubt they vary much between car models. Resizing the airbox could save $6-8 easily.

- LostCause
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