I have not found any local sources for stainless steel wool to look at to see if it is too fine as a substitute for the filament that is in there. I did see some kitchen scrubers made from copper but they appear to be way too thick.
I also wonder about putting anything metal in the filter. If it were to get sucked up it might not be too good for rings and cylinders and pistons and all.
What was the original V8 oil bath filament air cleaner made from? Looking at it it is hard to tell. Kind of feels like bristles from a brush.
