Air filter

It is important to have clean air in the engine, therefore the intake air has to be cleaned from the airborne dust. This task is performed by the air filter, which is made of special paper for ensuring a highly efficient operation. Three kinds of air filter designs are distinguished: ring, panel and cylindrical. It is important to have high quality and properly sized filter in the filter housing, because the engine could not get enough air if the filter clogs, thus reducing the performance of the engine.

Types of air filters

According to mode of filtering:

• Inertial
• In oil bath
• Dry (paper, wool, metal fibre, filament)
• Resistance free

Primarily the filters with dry filtering medium are used in the modern vehicles.

According to design:

• Ring
• Panel
• Cylindrical

Handling the air filter

• It is important to follow the instructions of the vehicle manufacturers. However, it is recommended to replace the filter after 10,000 km run, but once a year even if this milage is not reached.
• The inadequate operating conditions could significantly reduce the life span of the filters.
• Do not neglect it, because the dust in the combustion chamber could cause damage.

Signs of faulty air filters

• Decreasing engine performance.
• Higher noise level while the engine runs.
• Difficulty or failure to start the engine.
• Increased fuel consumption.
• Increased quantity of carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas.
• Black or bluish exhaust gas.

Reasons of air filter failure

• Neglecting the recommended replacement period.
• Oil or water gets into the filter.
• Frequent use among the poor operating conditions (e.g., dusty road)
• Badly fitted part.
• Use of inadequate or poor-quality filter.