Hi all, I’ve got a couple of queries with my air filter (From ‘Yambits’ UK).
Firstly, it has ‘collapsed’. It never came with a ‘frame’, and I don’t believe the original filters came with a ‘frame’? (or if they did, they are probably like hens teeth now). So, what should I do? Make a frame from wire? Got any examples? Buy a different filter? etc or do they all deform like that?
Secondly, when I installed it (6 months and about 30 miles ago), I VERY lightly oiled it. Now, there is oil at the bottom of the filter (see photo *still trying to attach!* which shows the filter upside down) and inside the air filter housing. Where did the oil come from? Is it the oil that I used to very lightly oil the filter? (I only used a little bit!) or is it coming from the cylinder somehow? I know it’s not coming from the inlet to the air filter housing as I took out the tool tray and it’s quite dusty under there (historical dust).
Thanks

This is what I have on my 76 DT400C

K&N filter

When I bought my bike (non running), it came with a K&N, but sold it in pursuit of originality. Probably should have kept it….

Only you, God and the people you tell will know it's a K&N, the people you tell can be dealt with if needed (oh sorry, had a flashback to my military days )...

EDIT:  I'm thinking you didn't even go to the link, it fits in the original air box...

I did. Mine was exactly the same. Long story (see my other posts), but I have had ‘running’ issues, so wanted to return the bike to stock spec.
I seem to recall that had oil on it as well, but put it down to the previous owner (probably deceased judging by the state of the forks/bars/front wheel etc etc) over oiling it.

The filters can be over oiled, put another one on and move onto other things. Unless you over oil the filter it will NOT cause you problems.

UNI makes a aftermarket nu-2215 foam filter and it comes with a cage, the original Yamaha filter uses a cage as well, I have seen both styles either a plastic or wire mesh cage, you are correct they are kinda rare, but KDI_Reproduction’s have stepped up to the plate and sells a reproduction plastic cage directly through their website as well as on eBay.

Regarding oil in filter housing... Owner's Manual says to service air filter every month or 1,000 miles whichever comes first.

Doesn't matter if you ride it or not. Gravity acts on the oil in filter over time.

I bought a KDI plastic ‘cage’ for my air filter. Anybody else bought one?
Quality is not great on mine. It is mis-shaped and too long for the housing.
Will have to modify it (haven’t fully investigated yet. Will start by trying to straighten it up using some heat). Not impressed. It wasn’t cheap either. It just adds to my hatred of aftermarket parts. I usually bin them and then buy a used part.

 

With respect to your challenging experience with this particular part. I'd suggest reaching out to Dave at KDI to see what you can work out. I can only speak for myself but I believe having KDI to save our butts for hard to find parts, especially where we just want to a clean bike to ride and are not necessarily concerned with NOS perfect, is a godsend. He's also a supporter of this site, has a passion for saving these important machines and seems to connect personally with customers. I'm not saying you shouldn't be upset with a particular part but I do think some decorum be applied as well. Just my two cents. I have a spare oem metal cage that may work for you and would be happy to measure it and send photos. Just PM me.