Are KN filters better than std flame arrestors?

Do these things actually improve performance?

http://www.knfilters.com/marine/flamearrester.htm

K&N Claims that performance with a K&N filter is better than with a standard flame arrestor.

" . . . is designed to straighten and channel incoming air ... Engines equipped with a K&N High Performance Flame Arrestor actually produce MORE horsepower than those with no filtration at all."

That is a pretty bold statement. I find it hard to believe personally, but I know KN makes some quality stuff.

Maybe on some engines they are better. Considering that all of these inboard ski boat engines have long runner efi intakes I doubt they help much.

On a carburated engine or maybe the TBI engines where the intake is a relatively short runner intake they may help.

I wonder if something like a cold air intake kit would be better. Otherwise, the engine sucking air from under that warm/humid cover.

From my jet skiing days it definately does make a difference if you can get colder, drier air to the intake.

However, on the water a "cold air intake" could very quickly become a "cold water intake" and that would be very very very bad on a 4 stroke boat motor. I hydraulic-ed a cylinder on a Toyota truck of mine years ago and it was not pretty.

I know that Mastercraft went to the K&N style filter on the X-star shortly after 1999. I have the standard style flame arrestor with slatted strips of metal on mine.

Those strips also "straighten and channel incoming air" just like the K&N and I doubt the K&N will flow more air. The only thing I can see is that it might be a better filter, but there is not really the dust and dirt out on the lake like a car or motorcycle has.

In short..."you just need something to keep the bees out" as an old drag bike guy once told me.

P.S. Also, the "Vornado" is a piece of junk.

There is no need for an air filter on a boat, How much dust do you hit on the water?

My MC dealer said don't waste your money on the K&N filter. That is also what a boat mechanic said when I talked to him about it.