Particle Separators… Gimmick or Must-Have on your SXS?

There is a lot of innovation in the aftermarket with UTVs. The aftermarket designs good products with the abuse that UTVs take. Here is how to extend the life of air filters and engines. Particle separators are a “pre-filter” that separates dust and debris from clean air before it even enters your air filter. There are two types of air filters that have cornered the market: The S&B UTV Particle Separator and the KWT Particle Separator.

S&B Particle Separators (Gen 1 and 2)

S&B launched their design first. It has an interior fan that forces dust out while allowing clean air in. At $500 it wasn’t cheap. But, having to change air filters is a pain in the ass and expensive. It is huge for everyone (especially us at UTVRepair.com). They just released their Gen 2 separator which has quieter fans and it is slimmer. We use the Gen 1 separator on our Can Am X3 Turbo RR. We have not changed our air filter yet. The separator really does the job.

• The fan gets silt and dirt out with no filter changes on the unit itself
• The design is slim and looks great
• Their Gen 2 is quieter and the Gen 1
• It is easy to install with no cutting or trimming

• It is more expensive than KWTs
• The fan is noisy
• The wired design draws power (3.1 Amps)

KWT Particle Separator

Our next particle separator is made by KWT. It was developed by aerodynamicist Ken Larson (say that 10 times fast, LOL). The KWT separator does not draw power! It does not need wiring and it is completely silent. It is $100 less than S&B’s separator. It is a great option for many riders.

• Powerless system that requires no electricity
• Priced at $400
• It is completely silent

• You will have to cut the air inlet cover
• The collection chamber needs to be emptied periodically

Bottom Line

With OEM air filters averaging $40, particle separators are a great investment. They will keep the engine lasting longer and they look pretty badass.