I am helping a neighbor with a beat up 1996 Big Bear 4X4. The oil air filter element is falling apart. I stuck in the newer style dry filter element from my 2001 Big Bear and it looks like it will work fine. I may need a rubber pad behind it to keep it tight but otherwise I don't know why we would want to mess with getting a new oil filter and oiling it.

Any reason they would not work just as well?

 

i've never heard of a dry element on a quad... filter oil is designed to cling onto dust so it doesn't go into the motor, you can order a new one for under $30 from RMATV

 

That year probably used a plain paper element.

Two of my older ones did. At 12 bucks a piece from the dealer, and needing to change them 3-4 times a year, it was an easy decision to buy a reusable filter. Check ebay, you may find a good deal there.