GASKET-PLATE 3246142 - Caterpillar

Remove engine air filter primary element (1) from the air cleaner housing.
Illustration 2 g00839884
(2) Air cleaner housing
Clean the inside of air cleaner housing (2).
Inspect engine air filter primary element (1). If the pleats, the gaskets, or the seals are damaged, discard engine air filter primary element (1). Replace a damaged engine air filter primary element (1) with a clean engine air filter primary element (1).
Do not clean the primary element by bumping or tapping the primary element. Do not use a primary element with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Engine damage can result.Make sure the cleaned primary element is completely dry before installing it into the air cleaner housing. Water remaining in the primary element can cause false indications of contamination in Scheduled Oil Sampling test results.
If engine air filter primary element (1) is not damaged, clean engine air filter primary element (1). Refer to "Cleaning Primary Air Filter Elements" for the correct procedure.
Inspect engine air filter primary element (1) after you clean the primary element. Do not use an engine air filter primary element (1) if the pleats, the gaskets or the seals are damaged.
Cover the clean engine air filter primary element (1). Store engine air filter primary element (1) in a clean, dry location. An engine air filter primary element (1) may be cleaned for a maximum of six times. Also replace engine air filter primary element (1) if the primary element has been in service for one year.
Install a clean engine air filter primary element. Install the wing nut. Install the retaining pin. Note: Make sure that the engine air filter primary element (1) is properly seated and sealed.
Reset the air filter element indicator. Start the engine. Run the engine at torque converter stall speed. If the yellow piston in the air filter element indicator moves into the red zone, install a new engine air filter primary element. Also, if the exhaust smoke is black, install a new engine air filter primary element. If the piston remains in the red zone after resetting and installing a new engine air filter primary element, replace the engine air filter secondary element. See the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Engine Air Filter Secondary Element - Replace".Cleaning Primary Air Filter Elements
Caterpillar recommends certified air filter cleaning services available at participating 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 207 kPa (30 psi). Direct the air flow up the pleats and down the pleats from the inside of the filter element. Take extreme care in order to avoid damage to the pleats.Do not use air filters with damaged pleats, gaskets, or seals. Dirt entering the engine will cause damage to engine components.
Do not clean the air