k&n air filter replacement/installation question
 

I put some K&N's in my '09 Touring the other day and the cartridge that the filter sits in (which then drops into the box) seemed to fit in much tighter than with the standard disposable filter. Anyone experience this? I was able to put the cartridge fully back into place and put the metal clips in place to clamp it but it just didn't seem like it should seat in there any differently from the stock filter. It definitely is a much more snug fit than with the original/stock filter and went into place but certainly didn't just drop right in and clamp down.

Anyone else have the K&N's and experience this?

Thanks!

K&Ns tend to do that. Seems to be a little excess silicone seal. My AFE drop in's were much easier but still more resistance than OEM.

tight filters
 

Mine were so tight that I sent them back. I thought it would break the housing if I closed the clamps. I am looking for a better fit filter myself. Let me know if you have a solution.

Can also confirm this is normal. I never thought the metal clips were going to pop in to place when I installed mine. When I asked a few folks, they all said this was the normal fit for the K&N drop-ins.

By the way, when it's time to clean them, make sure you don't over-oil them. It can wreak havoc with your MAF sensors if you do.

Yea, same thing happened with me. It almost felt like the filter was too big, but I ended up getting it in there just fine (giggity).

Yup - totally normal OP. I've had a set on for about a week or so now and no issues at all.