Investigating Maintenance Procedures for Engine Air Filters

Most vehicles in operation are equipped with air filters made of cellulose fiber. Dust particles that are not retained by the air filter reach inside the engine, intensifying its wear. The air filter condition affects economic performance, power and reliability of the internal combustion engine. Properly maintenance of the air filters positively affects engine durability and reduces maintenance costs. The air filter condition is assessed by the restriction generated. This paper investigates to what extent the air filters replaced according to the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer (depending on the distance traveled by the vehicle while using the air filter or the operating time of the air filter) were replaced at the appropriate time. Restriction values generated by seven types of new and used air filter are being presented. The results show that replacing filters according to the maintenance manual and repair is made in most cases prematurely or too late. The paper also draws attention on the default mounting of the air filter that could lead to its damage and consequently allowing unfiltered air entering the engine.