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Maintenance Section
NOTICE
Do not clean the air filter elements by bumping or
tapping. This could damage the seals. Do not use
elements with damaged pleats, gaskets, or seals.
Damaged elements will allow dirt to pass through.
Engine damage could result.
Visually inspect the primary air filter element before
cleaning. Inspect the air filter element for damage to the
seal, the gaskets, and the outer cover. Discard any
damaged air filter elements.
There are two common methods that are used to clean
primary air filter elements:
• Pressurized air
• Vacuum cleaning
Pressurized Air
Pressurized air can be used to clean primary air filter
elements that have not been cleaned more than two
times. Pressurized air will not remove deposits of
carbon and oil. Use filtered, dry air with a maximum
pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi).
Illustration 238 g00281692
Note: When the primary air filter elements are cleaned,
always begin with the clean side (inside) in order to
force dirt particles toward the dirty side (outside).
Aim the hose so that the air flows inside the element
along the length of the filter in order to help prevent
damage to the paper pleats. Do not aim the stream of air
directly at the primary air filter element. Dirt could be
forced further into the pleats.
Vacuum Cleaning
Vacuum cleaning is another method for cleaning
primary air filter elements which require daily cleaning
because of a dry, dusty environment. Cleaning with
pressurized air is recommended prior to vacuum
cleaning. Vacuum cleaning will not remove deposits of
carbon and oil.
Inspecting the Primary Air Filter
Elements
Illustration 239 g00281693
Inspect the clean, dry primary air filter element. Use a
60 watt blue light in a dark room or in a similar facility.
Place the blue light in the primary air filter element.
Rotate the primary air filter element. Inspect the primary
air filter element for tears and/or holes. Inspect the
primary air filter element for light that may show through
the filter material. If it is necessary in order to confirm
the result, compare the primary air filter element to a
new primary air filter element that has the same part
number.
Do not use a primary air filter element that has any
tears and/or holes in the filter material. Do not use a
primary air filter element with damaged pleats, gaskets
or seals. Discard damaged primary air filter elements.
Storing Primary Air Filter Elements
If a primary air filter element that passes inspection will
not be used, the primary air filter element can be
stored for future use.
Illustration 240 g00281694
Do not use paint, a waterproof cover, or plastic as a
protective covering for storage. An airflow restriction
may result. To protect against dirt and damage, wrap the
primary air filter elements in Volatile Corrosion Inhibited
(VCI) paper.
Place the primary air filter element into a box for
storage. For identification, mark the outside of the box