Air Filter, what Air Filter?

[Tom Potter]

I finally got around to checking the Air Filter on my M-12. I removed the cover and low and behold there was just a few crumbles of foam on the bottom of the casing, nothing left of the filter. At least the round wire screen was still in place. After a search on the Internet I found a few places that carried the replacement filters but I just couldn't see paying 25-30 bucks for a tiny piece of round foam.

I was talking with my wife about the filter and explaining to her what it looked like when she told me it sounded like the filter on her vacuum.

Hmmm! :stirthepot:

I picked up a Arm and Hammer vacuum filter for a Bissell 7,8 and 14 from Walmart. It came with some type of odor patch that I cut off. The filter was just the right size for the screen but was twice as wide as I needed. Using scissors I cut it in haft, I couldn't ask for a better fit. Total cost $5.99 and I even have a spare. :dance:

I plan to check it after a few hours and see how it's holding up, but from the looks and feel of it I'm pretty sure its going to work great.

 

[Ed Schenck]

Well your engine already ate the old one. Not much that can go wrong by trying your idea. I suppose it is possible that the foam is more restrictive than the original but that is unlikely.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

Keep in mind diesels require a lot more air. What is it you are trying to filter? Or, to put it another way, do you sail in dusty areas?

 

[Tom Potter]

The foam density is my only concern, it appears to be very close in appearance to what was once used. So we will see, I'll keep my eye on it, to see if she starves for air. I have no idea how long she has been running with no filter since this is the first time I've checked it since I owned this boat (about 2 years).

It's ran fine and probably would run fine for many more years without the filter since there is not much dust in the engine compartment however there was nothing there in that 1-1/2 intake hole leading to the cylinder head to stop dirt dobbers or other impurities from entering the engine head and building homes on my valves.

 

[31seahorse]

Hello Members, I think I had the same experience some years ago. In your case and mine perhaps the PO removed the foam filter. That makes me feel better than to think of the foam being ingested and run through the engine. Anyway, I like your solution. I also felt that the price of a simple piece of foam was way out of line.....especially since it did not have the word "BOAT" printed on it!
Respectfully, Phil in FL.

 

[rajhnsn]

I replaced the foam filter that came with my boat after two seasons. It was very similar to the picture you show. The replacement is also simple foam. I have had no problems with either one.