Inspecting the Air Cleaner Filter
*EASY*
The air cleaner filter should be inspected every two months to be sure it is properly trapping the dirt and dust in the air. If driving in dusty or off-road conditions, check the air filter monthly. Use this procedure to determine the condition of your air cleaner filter:
- Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, parking brake set, and transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual).
- Raise the hood and identify the air cleaner using your car manual. The air cleaner is usually a circular, metal housing located directly above engine or a black, plastic box near a front corner or side of the engine compartment.
- Remove the wing nut on the circular metal air cleaner or the snap clips on the rectangular air cleaner. Remove the air cleaner cover in either case.
- Pull out the filter and inspect it in front of a strong light. If the air cleaner filter is torn or light is blocked out, it must be replaced. Wipe all dirt from the interior surfaces of the air cleaner, including the cover, and install a new air filter if necessary. Be certain replacement filter fits correctly and is the same exact size as the original dirty filter it is replacing. When installing the new filter, be certain to observe any markings such as "TOP" that would translate into "this side up." If your filter is not dirty, you can continue using it.
- Replace the air cleaner cover and tighten the wing nut or snap clips. Be certain that the rubber gasket on the filter provides an air-tight seal with the air cleaner's interior surface. In other words, the air cleaner cover should be slightly displaced by the air filter when initially installed, and then resist tightening. Be sure the air cleaner itself is firmly attached to its mount and that no air leaks occur at this connection.
- If the air cleaner has a thermostatically controlled damper that pipes in warm air from the exhaust manifold, make sure the damper operates under finger pressure. Be certain to firmly connect heat stove duct hose to air cleaner if so equipped. If the duct hose is worn or torn, replace it.
