Air Cleaner Housing: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION

The function of the air cleaner assembly is to prevent dirt and water from entering the engine. Air enters the air cleaner assembly and hits a helical ramp that is around the air filter. This causes the air to spin. Centrifugal force separates the dirt and water from the intake air. A rubber ejector valve is placed in the bottom of the assembly to eject dirt and water from the air cleaner assembly.

Air cleaners should be inspected and serviced at regular intervals, or more often under severe dust conditions.

Under adverse conditions or long periods of time on dusty or sandy roads, the unit should be cleaned every day. Air cleaners on vehicles operating in dust storm areas should be cleaned immediately after such storms occur.

NOTE: In addition to its function of filtering air drawn into the engine, the air cleaner also acts as a flame arrester in the event the engine backfires. Because backfiring may cause fire in the engine compartment, the air cleaner should be installed at all times unless temporary removal is necessary during repair or maintenance of the vehicle.