A K&N should last if given some care. I think I saw on the K&N website that they have a lifetime warranty. You might want to check, if you buy another, be aware that they are proud of them and don't give them away.It looks like it might have split open at that line. Never having had the shroud off I wouldn't know if it's always been that way. I did notice it looks like a small piece has chipped out of the edge of the parting line. That is shown at the very edge of the picture. It might be time to replace the manifold?
The K&N filter I have is used dry. That makes the washing simple and easy. It's worked for a few of years but maybe I should have replaced it by now. They can't last forever I suppose.
I've had to stop several times during a mowing to knock the excess dirt out of the filter or I won't make it back to the house.
An opening in the intake manifold would allow dust into the engine and cause premature wear; and allow air intrusion, which would cause the engine to run lean. If it is split open, at least try plugging any opening in the intake manifold with epoxy, silicone sealer or even hot glue, which should last long enough to see if it improves performance.It looks like it might have split open at that line. Never having had the shroud off I wouldn't know if it's always been that way. I did notice it looks like a small piece has chipped out of the edge of the parting line. That is shown at the very edge of the picture. It might be time to replace the manifold?
The K&N filter I have is used dry. That makes the washing simple and easy. It's worked for a few of years but maybe I should have replaced it by now. They can't last forever I suppose.
I've had to stop several times during a mowing to knock the excess dirt out of the filter or I won't make it back to the house.
An air box might reduce plugging of the filter, if it doesn't have one.