Air filter element
Some of the Universal engines, the M25XP included, call for a foam filter element at the air inlet to the manifold. Unfortunately, there is something experienced on some boats where the foam disintegrates. The foam then gets sucked through the engine. This is probably worse than no foam at all but we have not seen any internal engines as a result thereof. Most diesels, especially those that need lots of air, have a finer mesh screen to keep out the big chunks and critters. What you have, inside a nice clean sailboat, is better than the foam filter. The screen may get dirty but it can be cleaned. We have seen some problems with engine box sound insulation coming loose and being sucked into the intake. Something everyone should check.
