What’s the Best Oil Filter for Harley Davidson?

Motorcycles
1

I’m looking for some solid advice on what the best oil filter is for my Harley Davidson. I know that oil filters can vary quite a bit in terms of quality, and since I want to keep my bike running smoothly, I want to make an informed choice.

Why Oil Filter Choice Matters

Choosing the right oil filter is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity. A good oil filter helps to trap contaminants and prevent them from circulating back into the engine, which can lead to wear and tear over time.

Factors to Consider

When searching for the best oil filter, here are some factors to think about:

  • Compatibility: Make sure the filter is compatible with your Harley model.
  • Filter Quality: Higher quality filters generally provide better filtration and durability.
  • Brand Reputation: Some brands have a reputation among riders for reliability – it’s worth considering user feedback.

Recommendations

So far, I’ve heard a lot about a few brands like:

  • Screamin’ Eagle: Specifically designed for Harley bikes, these filters are a popular choice.
  • K&N: Known for excellent filtration and high flow rates.
  • HiFlo Filtro: Often recommended for their quality and affordability.

User Experiences

I’d love to hear from others who have experience with different oil filters. What brands have you tried? Did you notice any difference in engine performance after switching your oil filter? Any specific models that worked great for you?

Conclusion

I appreciate any help in narrowing down my options. I’m really looking forward to your insights and recommendations. Thanks in advance for your help!

3 Likes
2

I’ve been using paper filters for my Harley. They do a great job at filtering out small particles but are not reusable. Still, they’re relatively inexpensive and can be easily replaced!

5 Likes
3

That’s interesting, frussell. I’ve heard that metal filters are durable and can be cleaned and reused. Any thoughts on that?

4

Metal filters are great if you want something long-lasting, but they can be a bit pricey upfront. Just make sure to clean them regularly, or you might end up with clogs!

5

That’s a good point, but I wonder how well they filter compared to pleated filters. Anyone have experience with those?

6

Pleated filters typically offer a larger surface area for filtration, allowing for better flow and trapping more particles. They tend to be a happy medium between paper and metal filters.

7

That’s fascinating! I feel like I need to do more research on pleated filters now. Are they more expensive than paper filters?

3 Likes
8

Yes, pleated filters can be a bit pricier than paper ones, but considering the added benefits, they might be worth the investment. Your engine will thank you in the long run!

9

I switched to a pleated filter and noticed a difference in performance. Definitely worth the few extra bucks! Anyone else make the switch?

3 Likes
10

That’s awesome, elizabeth! I’m tempted to give them a try. Just wondering, are there any major drawbacks?

11

The only real downside is the cost and occasional availability issues. But for the performance and protection, many say it’s worth it!

12

Glad to know it’s worth considering! I’m still mulling over the idea of trying a metal filter for my next change, maybe a bit of variety?

13

I’ve been using the Harley-Davidson Genuine Oil Filter for years. It’s reliable and meets all the OEM standards. Highly recommend it!

14

I second that! I’ve had great results with it as well. No leaks, and it keeps the engine running smoothly.

15

I’ve tried a couple of aftermarket filters, but none have performed as well as the HD one. The compatibility is key for us Harley riders.

16

Exactly! I had a bad experience with a cheap filter once. Lesson learned!

17

I use the K&N oil filter, it’s a solid choice! The extra filtration performance is a plus, and it’s easy to remove during oil changes.

18

Interesting! I’ve heard the K&N filters are good, but do you find them worth the extra price?

19

I think the extra cost is justified! The K&N filters do offer exceptional quality. My bike runs much smoother since I switched.

20

I’m considering switching brands myself. Anyone had experience with the Mobil 1 filters? Are they as good as advertised?