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Caterpillar recommends certified air filter cleaning services that are available at Cat dealers. The Cat cleaning process uses proven procedures to assure consistent quality and sufficient filter life. Observe the following guidelines if you attempt to clean the filter element: Do not tap or strike the filter element in order to remove dust. Do not wash the filter element. Use low pressure compressed air in order to remove the dust from the filter element. Air pressure must not exceed Do not use air filters with damaged pleats, gaskets, or seals. Dirt entering the engine will cause damage to engine components. |
NOTICE |
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Always replace the secondary element. Do not attempt to reuse it by cleaning. Engine damage could result. |
Note: Replace the secondary filter element when you service the primary element for the third time. If a clean primary element has been installed and the air inlet restriction indicator on the display is still illuminated, replace the secondary filter element. The secondary element is located inside the primary element.
Illustration 1 | g06206587 |
Left engine access door. |
Replacing Primary Air Filter Elements
- Open the engine access door on the left side of the machine.
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Illustration 2 g06054119 - Loosen the four cover latches and remove the air cleaner cover. It is not necessary to disconnect the dust valve to the air filter cover.
Note: The latches for the air cleaner housing may snap open when you release the latches.
- Remove the primary filter element from the air cleaner housing. To remove the engine air filter primary element, slide the element outward. While you pull the element outward, rock the element. To remove the primary element, turn it counterclockwise and pull it outwards.
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NOTICE Do not use a filter if the media, the gaskets, or the seals are damaged.
- Install a clean primary filter element over the engine air filter secondary element. Apply firm pressure to the end of the primary element as you gently rock the filter element. This action seats the primary element.
- Clean the cover and install the cover.
- Close the access door.
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Illustration 3 g06054121 Component rotated 90 degrees
The filter element indicator is located near the top of the air cleaner group inside the left engine compartment. - Start the engine. The indicator on the compact instrument cluster will illuminate when the filter needs attention. Then, check the switch and wiring for damage. If no damage is evident, remove, inspect, and clean the secondary filter element.
Cleaning Primary Air Filter Elements
The primary air filter element can be used up to six times if the element is properly cleaned and properly inspected. When the primary air filter element is cleaned, check for rips or tears in the filter material. The primary air filter element should be replaced at least one time per 2-year period. This replacement should be performed regardless of the number of cleanings.
NOTICE |
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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 elements before cleaning. Inspect the air filter elements for damage to the seal, the gaskets, and the outer cover. Discard any damaged air filter elements.
Pressurized air is the best method to clean primary air filter elements.
Illustration 4 | g06054128 |
Direction of air flow |
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
Note: When the primary air filter element is cleaned, always blow the air from the clean side. This action forces the dirt particles toward the dirty side. This procedure helps prevent damage to the paper pleats.
Do not touch the tip of the air gun to the primary air filter element. Dirt could be forced further into the pleats.
Before you reuse the primary air filter element, check for any damage to the seals, the gaskets, and the bellows. Discard any damaged air filter elements.
Inspecting the Primary Air Filter Elements
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 5 | g00281694 |
Do not use paint, a waterproof cover, or plastic as a protective covering for storage. An air flow 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 and mark the primary air filter element. Include the following information:
- Date of cleaning
- Number of cleanings
Store the box in a dry location.
Replacing the Secondary Air Filter Elements
- Open the left engine access door.
- Remove the housing cover to the precleaner body assembly.
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Illustration 6 g06054146 Secondary air cleaner element - Remove the secondary element. The secondary element is on the end of the air cleaner group toward the cab. Remove the primary element. To remove the secondary element, turn it counterclockwise and pull it outwards.
- Cover the air inlet opening. Clean inside the air cleaner housing.
- Inspect the gasket between the air inlet and the housing. If the gasket is damaged, replace the element.
- Uncover the air inlet opening. Install a new secondary element.
- Install the air cleaner housing cover.
- Close the engine access door.