Can anybody who has actually installed a Fram Air filter in an '04 TL
confirm that the part number is CA9600 and it worked fine?

I've always trusted Fram and prefer not to go the K&N route. Problem
is you can't 100% confirm the part until you try and install it. Fram's
website says CA9600, but the PepBoys FRAM catalog says the '03 model
as do many online stores (CA8XXX something).

PepBoys of course doesn't sell CA9600 and in fact I've never been able
to find an oil or air filter for my Acura or past Hondas at PepBoys. So I'm forced
to mail order or buy from the dealer. This time I intend to mail order, just
looking for a confirmation.

 

Old thread...but CA9600 is the wrong part for the base 3G TL air filter. The Fram site says it's the right one, but the OEM air filter is not the same part as the Fram CA9600 air filter. They are shaped differently.

 

would have been hilarious if he responded with a

 

^He still might.

 

Why would you go with Fram?

What's wrong with K&N?

I have 1 extra, new, just bought it couple weeks ago...

 

While i don't like Fram, i won't go with K&N either, i personally think better flow charateristic means poorer filtration, you can tell by just looking at the K&N filter which has bigger opening compare than those fiber or paper based one. That means more dirt will get into the combustion chamber and i don't want that.
That's why i stick with OEM filter which seems like a quality unit, or i go with purolator one.

I think those K&N do more harm than good to the engine, yes since it has better flow, you may be able to extract an extra what 3, 5 HP (maybe less than that)?
But i don't think most people can tell the difference, it's more likely a placebo effect, if someone change your stock filter to K&N someday without telling you, i don't think people will notice it.

 

I agree with you on this...it is IMPOSSIBLE to notice the difference between an OEM filter and a K&N drop-in. Also, the K&N drop-in's will give you...1 hp.