Air filter, inner 346-6688 CAT, aftermarket, option 2

Air filter, inner 346-6688 is an aftermarket part for the Caterpillar backhoe loaders and loaders. This element is the inner (safety) element of a two-stage air filter.

The inner (safety) element sits behind the outer one and normally sees very little dust, so it is usually replaced every two or three outer element changes or at the interval the maker recommends. A dirty inner element shows that the outer element is damaged or badly seated, and the cause must be found. The inner element is never cleaned, only replaced. While the outer element is changed, the inner one is left in place so no dust gets into the housing.

Specifications

Compatibility

According to sources, secondary (inner) element 346-6688 works with main element 346-6687 on Caterpillar 416F-450F backhoe loaders and 910K-918M wheeled loaders. The catalogue also has the aftermarket version of this part. Other parts are in CAT filters.

Fitting

Before the change, stop the engine and clean the outside of the filter housing so no dust falls into the intake side when it is opened. Remove the old element carefully and wipe the inside of the housing and the seal face with a damp cloth; never blow compressed air into the clean side of the housing. Fit the new element fully home and close the cover clips. The dust valve, where fitted, must be intact and pointing down.