Air filter change on Cummins ISL

Sounds like you have a canister type filter similar to the Donaldson AH8503 in which case the entire canister is replaced. The inner filter cannot be replaced.

"Aiken Racer".....As stated, if yours is an all metal canister with a couple of quick release straps, the entire canister is replaced. The canisters are mounted differently on different model motor homes. No matter how yours is mounted, make sure that the end that goes into the engine is clean and will not drop debris into the engine when removed. Some slide off horizontally and are not an issue. Mine drops down (vertically) into the top of the engine and can easily have debris fall into the inlet. On mine, rather than disconnect the hose at the air cleaner, I disconnect at the engine. By doing it this way, debris around the air cleaner lip can't fall into the engine.

Yes, you have to replace the entire canister/filter. On a 2012 DP, why do you think the air filter needs replacing? Is the filter minder in the red? Yes, I know it's 3+ years old... so what? Guess I've been around heavy equipment where you take the filter out and shake all the dirt off the outside before you blow it out from the inside and put it back in every other day for years. Ok, you actually have two that you rotate as many machines do not have a air compressor on them.

The recommended time frame for filters is now 2-3 years. They may not be dirty and look okay, but the paper elements can start to disintegrate, especially if driven in wet weather. If the coach has never had the air cleaner changed it can be close to 4 years old on a 2012.

The Filter Minders are really useless and won't tell you the filter is plugged, until it's plugged.

Your filter is not serviceable/removable and you can really only see one end so there is no way to shake it or blow it out. With that said, some do have removable elements and you should NEVER, NEVER, NEVER take out a diesel filter and blow it out or shake it out and replace it. That is the best way to "dust" your motor. Yes, it may work on old tractors, but you could easily destroy a modern day diesel.

Is it really worth taking chances with your $25K - $35K motor by chintzing on a $125.00 filter?

You guys were right. The entire canister comes off and is totally replaced. Got it off ok. The internal filter looks clean as a whistle but the date was 2011 on the canister so I just wanted to replace since it was 5 years old. Thanks for the comments!

You guys were right. The entire canister comes off and is totally replaced. Got it off ok. The internal filter looks clean as a whistle but the date was 2011 on the canister so I just wanted to replace since it was 5 years old. Thanks for the comments!