C12 Marine Engines Caterpillar

Illustration 1	g00105025
(1) Vacuum regulator filter element (2) Air cleaner element

Note: The air cleaner element should be replaced after three cleanings.

Note: Use the 102-9720 Cleaning Kit. This product contains the detergent and oil that is made specifically for the maintenance of the air cleaner elements.

1. Remove the vacuum regulator filter element (1) and the air cleaner element (2).

   Note: The same procedure is used for cleaning both the air filter element and the vacuum regulator filter element.

2. Tap the element in order to dislodge dirt particles. Gently brush the element with a soft bristle brush.

   Note: The element may be oiled and the element may be reinstalled , if complete cleaning is not practical at this time. Refer to step 6.

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   NOTICE
   Do not use gasoline, steam, caustic or unapproved detergents, or parts cleaning solvents. Do not use high pressure water or air to clean the air cleaner element. Any of those liquids or methods can cause air cleaner element damage.

3. Spray the element with the cleaning solution. Allow the element to stand for 10 minutes.

4. Rinse the element with low water pressure. The maximum water pressure for this procedure is 275 kPa (40 psi). Tap water is acceptable. Start to rinse the element from the clean side (inside). Next, clean the dirty side (outside) in order to flush out dirt. Inspect the element for tears and/or holes after the element is cleaned. Do not reuse damaged elements.
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   NOTICE
   Do not use compressed air, open flame, or hot air to dry the air cleaner element. Excess heat shrinks cotton fiber, and compressed air may blow holes in the material. Allow the air cleaner element to air dry.

5. Shake excess water off the element and allow the element to air dry. Drying the element in the sun speeds the process.
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   NOTICE
   Do not use transmission fluid, engine oil, diesel fuel, or other lubricant to oil the air cleaner element. The air cleaner element can not function correctly if improper oil is used. Never operate an engine with a dry air cleaner element. The air cleaner element can not function correctly without oil. Always saturate the clean air cleaner element with the recommended oil.

6. The dry element should be oiled before installation. Apply small amounts of oil across the top of each pleat. Allow the oil to wick into the element for 20 minutes. Oil any remaining "white" spots.

7. Inspect the housing and the clamp for air cleaner element (2). Replace the housing and the clamp, if necessary. Install the clean, oiled air cleaner element. Refer to the Torque Specifications, SENR3130 for more information on the proper torques.

8. Install the vacuum regulator filter element (1) on the vacuum regulator filter.