18998 Mercruiser SPACER

Air enters the air cleaner through the inlet tube and is given a cyclonic twist as it passes the pre-cleaner fins. From 75 to 90 percent of the contaminants are separated from the air by the fins. The separated contaminants are thrown from the main air stream and out the ejector valve. The pre-cleaned air flows through the main element which removes virtually all (99.9 plus percent) of the remaining contaminants.Checking The Engine Air Cleaner
The engine air cleaner is equipped with an indicator that shows a red signal when the main element should be serviced. If the red signal is locked in view, the main element should be serviced as soon as possible to prevent engine damage. See "Changing an Air Cleaner Element" on page 3.0-2 for procedures.
STOP THE ENGINE BEFORE SERVICING THE AIR CLEANER. THIS IS A DRY TYPE AIR CLEANER - DO NOT USE OIL.
Changing An Air Cleaner Element
The main element should be cleaned or replaced with a new or clean element anytime the air cleaner indicator is locked in view. Replace the main element after six cleanings or one year of use, whichever occurs first. Change the safety element every third time the main element is cleaned or replaced. (See page 3.0-4 for cleaning procedures).Although it is possible to clean the safety element using the procedures described for the main element, it is not recommended except in an emergency situation. Maximum engine protection is achieved by replacing a plugged safety element with a new element.
INADVERTENT STARTING OF THE ENGINE CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. SHUT THE ENGINE DOWN AND REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH.
To replace a main element:1. Remove the upper radiator grill.2. Remove the cover assembly and clean it.3. Remove the main element. DO NOT REMOVE THE SAFETY ELEMENT.4. Immediately inspect the main element for any dust streaks on the inside. If there are any dust streaks, the element is damaged, THROW IT AWAY.5. Inspect the main element gasket. If the element gasket is not smooth and flat or is damaged in any way that might allow dust to get by, THROW THE ELEMENT AWAY.6. Install a new or cleaned main element.7. Inspect the gasket washer on the wing nut and replace it if a good air seal cannot be guaranteed.8. Tighten the wing nut securely.9. Install the cover assembly.10. Inspect the dust ejection valve for damage. Be sure the valve is securely in place and is not inverted.
INADVERTENT STARTING OF THE ENGINE CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. SHUT THE ENGINE DOWN AND REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH.
To replace a safety element:1. Remove the upper radiator grill.2. Remove the cover assembly and clean it.3. Remove the main element.
DO NOT USE COMPRESSED AIR TO CLEAN THE AIR CLEANER BODY WHEN THE SAFETY ELEMENT IS NOT IN PLACE. TO DO SO WILL FORCE DIRT INTO THE ENGINE.
4. Remove the safety element and clean out any dust dislodged into the cleaner outlet.5. Install a new safety element.6. Inspect the gasket washer on the wing nut and replace it if a good air seal cannot be guaranteed.7. Tighten the wing nut securely.8. Install the main element and tighten the wing nut securely.9. Install the cover assembly.Cleaning The Engine Air Cleaner Main Element
DO NOT USE GASOLINE OR OTHER VOLATILE SOLVENTS TO CLEAN AN ELEMENT. THE ELEMENT OR THE ENGINE COULD BE DAMAGED.
The dirty air cleaner element can be cleaned by one of three methods: (1) washing in a solution of water and detergent, (2) blowing with compressed air, or (3) washing with water alone. Detergent and water are best when the element is loaded with a combination of exhaust carbon, soot, oil and dust. Compressed air is effective when the element is loaded with dust. Washing with water alone will often work when air is not available and the element has only dust on it. Whichever method of cleaning is used, the element should be handled carefully to keep it from being punctured or dented. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THE ELEMENT BY BEATING OR RAPPING IT. The main element, protected by steel lines, is strong enough to take normal handling, but it will not stand an unlimited amount of abuse. DO NOT USE GASOLINE OR OTHER VOLATILE SOLVENTS TO CLEAN ELEMENTS. The element or the engine could be damaged.Cleaning with Detergent and Water
Blowing out dust with compressed air.
Removing dust with water hose.
THE USE OF COMPRESSED AIR COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. WEAR EYE PROTECTION, LONG SLEEVES AND GLOVES. NEVER USE MORE THAN 30 PSI (206.9 kPa) AIR PRESSURE.
1. If compressed air is available, remove the loose dust by blowing from the inside of the element. Use less than 30 psi (206.9 kPa), keep the nozzle at least one inch (2.54 cm) away from the element, and blow on the inside only. If compressed air is not available, run water through the element from the inside. Use a gentle water stream - less than 40 psi (275.8 kPa).
Washing in water and detergent.2. Soak the element in a solution of water and detergent.3. Gently swish the element around the solution to help loosen the dirt.
Rinsing after washing.4. With a gentle stream of water - less than 40 psi (275.8 kPa), rinse the entire element until the water comes through the element clear. Good rinsing is important.5. Dry the element thoroughly before inspecting it. Mechanical dryers can be used, but heated air must be circulated and must be less than 160°F (71°C). DO NOT USE A LIGHT BULB TO DRY THE ELEMENT.Cleaning with Air Only
Cleaning with compressed air.
THE USE OF COMPRESSED AIR COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. WEAR EYE PROTECTION, LONG SLEEVES AND GLOVES. NEVER USE MORE THAN 30 PSI (206.9 kPa) AIR PRESSURE.