yeah it does offer more protection. but if your in dusty areas, it will attract more dirt because of the oil. i did that with my bb and the filter would be unreal filthy at a half tank in(even good conditions). all though the dirt NEVER made it to the second filter. what i did was lightly coat th outer one and put good amount on the inner one.its opinion. i dont know better safe then sorry. even more so when all it takes is one grain of dirt to trash your motor. im using an hpi motor in my truck, and i prefer the hpi filter over the stock one from redcat.