3512E HD Petroleum Engine Caterpillar

Servicing the Air Cleaner Elements

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 Cat dealer has the proper air cleaner elements for your application. Consult your Cat 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.

• The air cleaner element should be replaced as required.

Dual Element Air Cleaners

The dual element air cleaner contains a primary air cleaner element and a secondary air cleaner element. The primary air cleaner element should be replaced as required.

The secondary air cleaner element is not serviceable or washable. The secondary air cleaner element should be removed and discarded for every three replacements of the primary air cleaner element. When the engine is operating in environments that are dusty or dirty, air cleaner elements may require more frequent replacement.

Illustration 1	g06072130
(1) Cover (2) Primary air cleaner element (3) Secondary air cleaner element

1. Remove the cover (1).

2. Remove the primary air cleaner element (2)

3. The secondary air cleaner element (3) should be removed and discarded for every three replacements of the primary air cleaner element.

4. Clean inside the air cleaner cover and body with a clean, dry cloth.

5. Cover the air inlet for the turbocharger with tape to keep out dirt.

6. Remove the tape for the air inlet for the turbocharger. Install the secondary air cleaner element. Install a new primary air cleaner element.

7. Install the air cleaner cover.

8. Reset the air cleaner service indicator.

Cleaning Primary Air Filter Elements

Observe the following guidelines if attempting to clean the filter element.

Do not tap or strike the filter element to remove contaminants.

Caterpillar Component Products Group does not recommend the cleaning of air filter elements. There is not a feasible and reliable method of inspecting air filter elements for damage. A damaged air filter element can allow dirt to pass through, thereby resulting in reduced efficiency.

Cleaning the air filter element will result in a progressive reduction from the original filter capacity each time the filter is cleaned. If the owner insists on cleaning primary air filter elements to extend filter life, the following instructions may help to minimize risks:

• Do not clean the air filter elements by dumping or tapping which could damage the air filter element.

• Discard damaged air filter elements.

• Do not use the air filter elements with damaged pleats, gaskets, or seals.

• Do not use solvents or water to wash the air filter element.

When attempting to clean primary air filter elements, use a maximum gauged air pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi) at a minimum distance of 75 mm (3 inch) for at least 3 minutes. Do not aim the high-pressure air stream directly at the filter media. Aim the air flow along the length of the filter media surface. Take extreme care during this procedure to help prevent damage to the filter element and forcing dirt into the pleats. This procedure may be used for a maximum of 3 cleaning procedures before filter element replacement.

The engine air filter secondary (safety) element should never be cleaned and should be replaced every third primary air filter element replacement or as required.

Never attempt to replace a filter element during engine operation.

Visually inspect the primary air cleaner elements before cleaning. Inspect the air cleaner elements for damage to the seal, gaskets, and out cover. Discard any damaged air cleaner elements.