Originally Posted By: DGXR
Better filtration in an equal-size filter will result in more air restriction. High flow and high filtration do not co-exist in this application. It's one or the other aka compromise. Stock air filters that are used in stock engines will be fine for 90% + of drivers. The factory/OEM air filter is probably the best filtration you will get without spending beaucoup bucks for a consumable item such as an *air filter.* The only way to improve (as another said) is to perfect the seal inside the air box. Get some air filter grease if you really want to.
BITOG is full of OCD worry warts. I do it sometimes too, so I'm not pointing fingers, I'm just saying. In this case I can say with confidence: there are better things to worry about.
Perhaps higher particle capture with adequate flow is achievable.
I see many who posit OEM air filters as best choice but never see such posts including numerical data to support that assertion.
The Mopar air filter for my truck has 98% efficiency on the side of the filter alongside the model number, rated flow rate, COO, etc.
Motorking has repeatedly posted standard Fram CAXXXX air filters exceed 98% efficiency, it rounds to 99%. Similarly, Purolator PureOne and Wix air filters state 99% and 99.5% efficiency, respectively. The Fram TGAXXXX series must exceed 99% efficiency by capturing double the dirt of the standard CAXXXX series air filters.
So, at least in this application, the data disproves the assertion OEM air filter is the best choice. Factor in price of OEM at typically 2 to 3 times that of the various aftermarket options I mentioned and you have a case of lowest efficiency at highest price by choosing OEM.
Now, installer grade air filters like current Microgard by Wix and Purolator Classic quote efficiencies in the 96% range, so these options are less efficient than OEM but at a significantly lower cost than OEM.
Pentius states their aftermarket air filters meet or exceed OEM in both efficiency and flow capacity. I bought some Pentius air filters for my application brand new from Amazon for less than $3 per filter, about one tenth the cost of OEM.
For me an analytical approach to air filter purchase choice for my truck has value. It's a far cry from "worrying" in my case, simply being data driven instead of emotionally driven.
YMMV