Never run the engine without an air cleaner element installed. Never run the engine with a damaged air cleaner element. Do not use air cleaner elements with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Dirt entering the engine causes premature wear and damage to engine components. Air cleaner elements help to prevent airborne debris from entering the air inlet. Never service the air cleaner element with the engine running since this will allow dirt to enter the engine. Servicing the Air Cleaner Elements If the air cleaner element becomes plugged, the air pressure can split the filter material of the element. Unfiltered air will drastically accelerate internal engine wear. Your Caterpillar dealer has the proper air cleaner elements for your application.The air cleaner may be mounted high above the engine. If necessary, use a ladder or a platform to reach the air cleaner. 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 may be cleaned up to six times if the element is properly cleaned and inspected. The air cleaner element should be replaced at least one time per year. This replacement should be performed regardless of the number of cleanings.Replace the dirty paper elements with clean elements. Before installation, thoroughly inspect the element for tears and/or holes in the filter material. Inspect the gasket or the seal of the element for damage. Maintain a supply of suitable elements for replacement purposes. Illustration 1 g00317608 Fasteners for the air cleaner cover Illustration 2 g00781084 (1) Cover (2) Element (3) Air inlet Release the fasteners for cover (1). Remove the cover and element (2). Cover air inlet (3) with tape in order to keep dirt out. Clean the inside of the cover and the body with a clean, dry cloth. Remove the tape for the air inlet. Install a new element or a clean element. Install the cover. If necessary, reset the air cleaner service indicator. Cleaning the Primary Air Cleaner Elements The primary air cleaner element can be used up to six times if the element is properly cleaned and inspected. When the element is cleaned, check the filter material for rips or tears. Replace the element at least one time per year regardless of the number of cleanings.Use clean elements while dirty elements are being cleaned. Do not clean the air cleaner elements by bumping or tapping. This could damage the seals. Do not use elements with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Damaged elements will allow dirt to pass through. Engine damage could result. Visually inspect the elements before cleaning. Inspect the elements for damage to the seal, the gaskets, and the outer cover. Discard any damaged elements.Air cleaner elements can be cleaned with pressurized air and with a vacuum.Pressurized Air Pressurized air can be used to clean elements that have not been cleaned more than two times. Pressurized air will not remove deposits of carbon and oil. Use filtered, dry air with a maximum pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi). Illustration 3 g00281692Note: When the elements
