Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
- Check, remove, and replace an engine air filter — throttle body and plenum types.
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
- Work clothing - such as coveralls and steel-capped footwear
- Eye protection - such as safety glasses and face masks
- Ear protection - such as earmuffs and earplugs
- Hand protection – such as rubber gloves and barrier cream
- Respiratory equipment – such as face masks and valved respirators
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
- Switch off the engine before changing the air filter.
- Always make sure that you wear the appropriate personal protection equipment before starting the job. It is very easy to hurt yourself even when the most exhaustive protection measures are taken.
- Always make sure that your work area/environment is as safe as you can make it. Do not use damaged, broken or worn out workshop equipment.
- Always follow any manufacturer's personal safety instructions to prevent damage to the vehicle you are servicing.
- Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
- Dust and grit in the air can be very abrasive and will shorten the life of the engine if not filtered out. If the filter element is not fitted correctly and does not seal properly, air will bypass the filter and enter the engine directly.
Part 2: Step-by-step instruction
- Remove air cleaner cover
There are different types of air filters and filter housings so check the vehicle service manual for the exact procedure. The air cleaner on a multi-port fuel injected vehicle is typically located in a rectangular box within the air induction system. Unlatch or unscrew the filter housing to remove the air filter. Engines with carburetors or throttle body injection usually have a large round air filter mounted on top of the throttle body. Remove the top by unscrewing the wing nut, and remove the filter.
- Inspect air cleaner element
If you see any build up of dirt on one side of the filter it should be replaced. Clean the inside of the filter housing to make sure that the new filter will seal properly when fitted.
- Obtain correct replacement filter
Obtain a new filter and compare it with the old one, making sure that they are exactly the same.
- Refit air cleaner element
Place the new filter inside the filter housing; making sure that it is aligned properly on both sides. Replace the cover of the air filter housing and tighten the latches, screws, or wing nut until completely closed.
