| NOTICE |
|---|
|
Never run the engine without an air cleaner element installed. Never run the engine with a damaged air cleaner element. Do not use air cleaner elements with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Dirt entering the engine causes premature wear and damage to engine components. Air cleaner elements help to prevent airborne debris from entering the air inlet. |
| NOTICE |
|---|
|
Never service the air cleaner element with the engine running since this will allow dirt to enter the engine. |
Servicing the Air Cleaner Element
If the air cleaner element becomes plugged, the air can split the material of the air cleaner element. Unfiltered air will drastically accelerate internal engine wear. Your Caterpillar dealer has the proper air cleaner element for your application. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for the correct air cleaner element.
- Check the precleaner (if equipped) daily for accumulation of dirt and debris. Remove any dirt and debris, as needed.
- Operating conditions (dust, dirt and debris) may require more frequent service of the air cleaner element.
Note: The air cleaner element may be cleaned as many as three times if the element is properly cleaned and properly inspected. The air cleaner element should be replaced after three cleanings.
Replace the dirty paper air cleaner element with a clean air cleaner element. Before installation, the air cleaner element should be thoroughly checked for tears and/or holes in the filter material. Inspect the gasket or the seal of the air cleaner element for damage. Maintain a supply of suitable air cleaner elements for replacement purposes.
| |
| Illustration 1 | g01245584 |
|
Typical example (1) Cover (2) Air cleaner element (3) Turbocharger inlet | |
- Remove the air cleaner cover. Remove the air cleaner element.
Note: Refer to "Cleaning the Air Cleaner Element".
- Cover the air inlet with tape in order to keep dirt out.
- Clean the inside of the air cleaner cover and body with a clean, dry cloth.
- Remove the tape from the air inlet. Install an air cleaner element that is new or cleaned.
- Install the air cleaner cover.
- Reset the air cleaner service indicator.
Cleaning the Air Cleaner Element
| NOTICE |
|---|
|
Caterpillar recommends certified air filter cleaning services that are available at Caterpillar dealers. The Caterpillar 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. |
Use a clean air cleaner element while the dirty element is being cleaned.
| NOTICE |
|---|
|
Do not clean the air cleaner 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 air cleaner element before cleaning. Inspect the air cleaner elements for damage to the seal, the gaskets, and the outer cover. Discard any damaged air cleaner element.
Pressurized air can be used to cleanthe air cleaner element up to three times. Pressurized air will not remove deposits of carbon and oil. Use filtered, dry air with a maximum pressure of
| |
| Illustration 2 | g00281692 |
Note: When the air cleaner element is cleaned, always apply air pressure to the outlet side of the filter element.
Note: Refer to "Inspecting the Air Cleaner Element".
Inspecting the Air Cleaner Element
Inspect the clean, dry air cleaner element. Do not use an air cleaner element that has any tears and/or holes in the filter material. Do not use an air cleaner element with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Discard damaged air cleaner elements.
Storing an Air Cleaner Element
If an air cleaner element that passes inspection will not be used, the air cleaner element can be stored for future use.
| |
| Illustration 3 | 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 air cleaner elements in Volatile Corrosion Inhibited (VCI) paper.
Place the air cleaner element into a box for storage. For identification, mark the outside of the box and mark the air cleaner element. Include the following information:
- Date of cleaning
- Number of cleanings
Store the box in a dry location.