68614 Mercruiser WASHER, BEARING PLATE

Never service the air cleaner element with the engine running since this will allow dirt to enter the engine.
Servicing the Air Cleaner Elements
If the air cleaner element becomes plugged, the air pressure can split the filter material of the element. Unfiltered air will drastically accelerate internal engine wear. Your Cat dealer has the proper air cleaner elements for your application.The air cleaner may be mounted high above the engine. If necessary, use a ladder or a platform to reach the air cleaner.
Check the precleaner (if equipped) daily for accumulation of dirt and debris. Remove any dirt and debris, as needed.
Operating conditions (dust, dirt, and debris) may require more frequent service of the air cleaner element.
The air cleaner element may be cleaned up to six times if the element is properly cleaned and inspected.
The air cleaner element should be replaced at least one time per year. This replacement should be performed regardless of the number of cleanings.Replace the dirty paper elements with clean elements. Before installation, thoroughly inspect the element for tears and/or holes in the filter material. Inspect the gasket or the seal of the element for damage. Maintain a supply of suitable elements for replacement purposes.
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Fasteners for the air cleaner cover
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(1) Cover
(2) Element
(3) Air inlet
Release the fasteners for cover (1).
Remove the cover and element (2).
Cover air inlet (3) with tape in order to keep out dirt.
Clean the inside of the cover and the body with a clean, dry cloth.
Remove the tape for the air inlet. Install a new element or a clean element.
Install the cover.
If necessary, reset the air cleaner service indicator. Cleaning the Primary Air Cleaner Elements
The primary air cleaner element can be used up to six times if the element is properly cleaned and inspected. When the element is cleaned, check the filter material for rips or tears. Replace the element at least one time per year regardless of the number of cleanings.Use clean elements while dirty elements are being cleaned.
Do not clean the air cleaner elements by bumping or tapping. This could damage the seals. Do not use elements with damaged pleats, gaskets or seals. Damaged elements will allow dirt to pass through. Engine damage could result.
Visually inspect the elements before cleaning. Inspect the elements for damage to the seal, the gaskets, and the outer cover. Discard any damaged elements.Air cleaner elements can be cleaned with pressurized air and with a vacuum.Pressurized Air
Pressurized air can be used to clean elements that have not been cleaned more than two times. Pressurized air will not remove deposits of carbon and oil. Use filtered, dry air with a maximum pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi).
Illustration 3 g00281692Note: When the elements are cleaned, always begin with the clean side (inside) in order to force dirt particles toward the dirty side (outside).Aim the hose so that the air flows inside the element along the length of the filter. This procedure will help prevent damage to the paper pleats. Do not aim the stream of air directly at the primary air cleaner element. Dirt could be forced into the pleats.Note: Refer to "Inspecting the Primary Air Cleaner Elements".Vacuum Cleaning
Vacuum cleaning is a good method for cleaning elements which require daily cleaning because of a dry, dusty environment. Cleaning with pressurized air is recommended prior to vacuum cleaning. Vacuum cleaning will not remove deposits of carbon and oil.Note: Refer to "Inspecting the Primary Air Cleaner Elements".Inspecting the Primary Air Cleaner Elements
Illustration 4 g00281693Inspect the clean, dry element. Use a 60 W blue light in a dark room or in a similar facility. Place the blue light in the element. Rotate the element. Inspect the element for tears and/or holes. Inspect the element for light that may show through the filter material. If confirming the result is necessary, compare the used element to a new element that has the same part number.Do not use an element that has any tears and/or holes in the filter material. Do not use an element with damaged pleats, gaskets, or seals. Discard damaged elements.Storing Primary Air Cleaner Elements
If an element that passes inspection will not be used immediately, store the element for future use.
Illustration 5 g00281694Do not use paint, a waterproof cover, or plastic as a protective covering for storage. Restricted air flow may result. To protect against dirt and damage, wrap the elements in Volatile Corrosion Inhibited (VCI) paper.Place the element into a cardboard box for storage. For identification, mark the outside of the container and mark the element. Include the following information:
Date of cleaning
Number of cleaningsStore the container in a dry location.For more detailed information on cleaning the primary air cleaner element, refer to Special Publication, SEBF8062, "Procedure to Inspect and Clean Air Filters".