Inspecting Your Crankcase Filter
*EASY*
Inspect your crankcase filter immediately after you examine the PCV valve. Use this procedure:
- Identify the crankcase (breather) filter with the assistance of your
owner's manual if necessary. It is typically located on the inside of a round
air cleaner or on top of the valve cover opposite the PCV valve. The crankcase
filter is generally made of foam and is attached with a metal clip.
- Remove the crankcase filter and inspect it. The filter should not be clogged, dirty, or oily. If it is, replace it. The PCV valve and crankcase filter will most likely get dirty together. That is because when the PCV valve is clogged and doesn't permit oily crankcase vapors to be drawn into the carburetor or throttle body by vacuum, they exit under pressure through the crankcase filter.
The crankcase (breather) filter should be changed every two years, or about 24,000 miles, under normal conditions. In severe conditions, the filter should be replaced every year, or about 12,000 miles.
