Air Filter Overview

An engine’s air filter removes dust and other foreign matter from the engine’s air supply. If grit or similar material was drawn into the cylinders, it would damage the engine severely. Also, smaller particles of dust and dirt could, if drawn into the cylinders, cause premature wear of the engine’s components and rapid deterioration of the engine oil, thereby shortening the engine’s service life significantly. Thus, the air cleaner must be fitted at all times.

If an air filter element becomes clogged, it reduces the engine’s intake efficiency, leading to the following problems:

Reduced power
Rough idling
Increased fuel consumption
Increased exhaust emissions

Consequently, a severely soiled air filtrt element must be replaced immediately even if the specified replacement interval has not elapsed.

CAUTION:

Air cleaner elements cannot be cleaned and reused. When an element becomes unusable, it must be replaced with a new one. (If a clogged element was cleaned and refitted, it would not provide its original performance. Also, air cleaner elements are not designed to withstand operation over extended periods.)
Elements are available in various sizes and shapes to suit different vehicle models and engine types. The correct type of element for any vehicle must be confirmed from the parts list.

Air Filter Types

Air filter elements in vehicles utilize filter paper to clean the air. The filter paper is available in wet and dry types. The wet type is lightly impregnated with special oil that enhances the paper’s ability to retain dust and dirt. Vehicles uses wet filter paper in the air cleaner elements of vehicles exported to most regions. Further, air cleaner elements are available in two shapes: square type and circular type. Their basic construction is the same.

Air Filter Replacement

Air Filter replacement is a simple procedure. First, undo the turnbuckles around the air cleaner housing and take off the air cleaner housing cover. Then, remove the old element from the air cleaner housing, fit a new element, and refit the cover using the turnbuckles.

NOTE:

Remove the old element gently so that dust and dirt do not fall into the intake pipe.
Before fitting the new element, inspect the inside surfaces of the cover and case and clean them if necessary.
Make sure the element and cover are fitted properly. Any gaps could allow dust and dirt to enter the engine.