Diesel Pusher Air Filter change
I was wondering how to really know when to change an air filter on a CAT engine. I have the vacuum gauge that is supposed to give you the info but how reliable are they? The filter for my engin...
Forum Discussion
Be aware that the air filter minder registers TOTAL RESTRICTION IN THE AIR SYSTEM.
So, yes, it monitors the filter, but any other restriction also raises the restriction. A common example is that chassis makers ship the bare chassis with a long, flexible hose which the coach maker attaches to the side of the coach. I have seen a number of these where cutting out 4' of that flex hose helps with restriction but removing the large loop the air must travel through.
When you do install a new filter, the first time you stop after a couple of wide open throttle at high RPM (any gear-- does not need to be fast road speed), record the air filter minder reading. This is your baseline. If high, look at what (other than the filter) may be causing it.
I totally agree, that if you don't drive many miles, or in very dusty conditions and every three year change gives you trouble-free operation.
Also, totally agree, that if the filter is removed, it is ALWAYS thrown away, never cleaned. Way too easy to break a pleat and cause a dusted engine (read that $10-20k).
So, yes, it monitors the filter, but any other restriction also raises the restriction. A common example is that chassis makers ship the bare chassis with a long, flexible hose which the coach maker attaches to the side of the coach. I have seen a number of these where cutting out 4' of that flex hose helps with restriction but removing the large loop the air must travel through.
When you do install a new filter, the first time you stop after a couple of wide open throttle at high RPM (any gear-- does not need to be fast road speed), record the air filter minder reading. This is your baseline. If high, look at what (other than the filter) may be causing it.
I totally agree, that if you don't drive many miles, or in very dusty conditions and every three year change gives you trouble-free operation.
Also, totally agree, that if the filter is removed, it is ALWAYS thrown away, never cleaned. Way too easy to break a pleat and cause a dusted engine (read that $10-20k).
