Caterpillar 3512 — Engine Air Cleaner Element (Dual Element) - Clean/Replace
Maintenance
For the Caterpillar 3512, from the Caterpillar owner's manual.
Applies to: Caterpillar 3512
Before you start
- Do not wash air cleaner elements in any flammable solution such as diesel fuel or gasoline. Doing so can cause fire or an engine runaway and can result in personal injury.
- Never service the air cleaner element with the engine running.
Parts for this job
Part numbers from the service-parts list for Caterpillar 3512. Verify against your serial number before ordering; some links are affiliate links.
Procedure
- Remove the cover. Remove the primary air cleaner element.
- Remove and discard the secondary air cleaner element for every three cleanings of the primary element.
- Cover the turbocharger air inlet with tape to keep dirt out.
- Clean the inside of the air cleaner cover and body with a clean, dry cloth.
- Remove the tape. Install the secondary element and a new or cleaned primary element.
- Install the air cleaner cover.
- Reset the service indicator.
Tools required
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Pressurized water: maximum below 275 kPa (40 psi); do not use a spray nozzle
- Pressurized air: maximum 207 kPa (30 psi) filtered dry air; elements not cleaned more than two times
- Wash: cleaning agent and warm water to a maximum of 60 °C (140 °F); soak for six hours
- Oven drying: do not exceed 82 °C (160 °F); air dry two days
Full service-parts list: Caterpillar 3512 →
Source: Caterpillar owner's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.