K&N Filters vs. UMP filter in a RZR

[superdutylee]

The Polaris filter is a paper filter and the UMP filter is also a paper filter so it probably isn't a better paper filter.( UMP does use a commercial filter that is used on many tractors) All of the clamps seemed tight on the factory airbox and intake when I removed them, but this was with the engine off so I have no idea what was going on when I was on the trail with the engine flexing. I did talk to afriend and he said lets see if we can mount the factory box to the trans, but it seemed to be a little easier to buy one that was engineered to mount to the trans and not modified. The 2.9 hours that I rode my RZR-S was riding by myself not following anyone, and I had read about the air filter problem and asked my dealer about it and he said that Polaris had fixed the problem. I pulled the filter out and saw that I did have some dust past the filter. My guess would be that when the engine moves it must create some gaps in the factory boots. I have read posts where owners have had dust in the intake with the stock box and the problem went away with the UMP box. I'm old enough that I have bought new cars that cost less than my RZR-S, so I didn't want to take ant chances. The next time I go out I will check my intake and if I don't have any dust it was money well spent, if I still have dust I wasted $320. Lee

[GRAZOR]

So far, we agree Lee. I still have $320 and the stock Polaris filter and absolutely zero dust in the throttle body. My stock clamps are as tight as a frog's rear and the stock filter has been in there since I bought my RZR- Generation 1 back when they first came out and the upgrade was done by the dealer.

Don't get me wrong here, I do know there are plenty of issues with the filtration system. I just think the obvious is completely overlooked and a tight seal is the key to clean air. I don't ride in a very dusty area but I am pretty confident that my stock system will be just fine as long as I keep a close eye on what is happening and replace dirty filters as needed. Paper elements do a better job in my research so it is good that UMP went in this direction.

I think if I was in the desert and was cranking real hard on my RZR I might seek a better alternative. So far, I have no need for anything better than the upgraded filtration system but you can be 100% sure I will report any shortcomings right here if they appear. I don't get squat from Polaris and I have no good reason to report any thing but what I can get my eyes and hands around. A clean throttle body is a beautiful sight and a strong running engine after 2 full years is even better.

Gary