In cabin air filter question

[Road Ruler]

Good day...

I replaced my ICAF the other day. It was not changed in 40,000 miles (yes overdue).

I was surprised how to see how much large crap the filter had collected??

I see the outside air intake for the plenum is the battery container under the hood. I was surprised to see that is where the fresh air is supposed to be coming from.

The outside air intakes through a hole in the firewall (just behind the battery) where the air travels through. It has no screen on it?? Is that why the large pieces of debris (grass, leaves etc, are getting in as far as the filter?

[joe603]

hmmm, not sure if it is supposed to have a screen or not

[srv2nv]

Mine didn't have a screen, and I haven't seen one with one yet. Consider yourself lucky that all you found were a few leaves and stuff, my girlfriend has a mouse nest one top of hers (no mouse luckily or I would still be hearing about it). When I changed mine a couple of weeks ago I found the cover for a battery terminal that didn't belong on my battery or the stock one (still don't know what was up with that).

[Road Ruler]

I'm thinking perhaps the plastic cover on the my battery is not tight enough.

Some of the plastic push clamps are damaged and probably causing a bad seal.

I think I will get a furnace filter, cut it down to the right shape and position it in front of the hole, behind the battery. Replace it every 6 months and that should help keep the large crap off the in cabin filter and keep any critters out.

Thnxs for your thoughts guys. Good info that helps

[srv2nv]

Might be a better idea to get some mesh screen and make a something to fit in or over the hole instead. The furnace filter will filter the air better, but restrict flow. Atleast with a mesh screen you'll be able to clean it with just water and reuse it, plus it will allow for better air flow.

Just my 2 cents.

[Road Ruler]

I bought some furnace filters. Cut one to size (slightly larger than the size of the battery). Used duct tape to secure filter edges. Removed the battery and set the filter against the firewall covering the intake hole.

I will replace this filter every 8 to 10 months. Cost is less than a dollar per change. By capturing the large crap this will also keep the in cabin filter cleaner, longer.

[joe603]

I bought some furnace filters. Cut one to size (slightly larger than the size of the battery). Used duct tape to secure filter edges. Removed the battery and set the filter against the firewall covering the intake hole.

I will replace this filter every 8 to 10 months. Cost is less than a dollar per change. By capturing the large crap this will also keep the in cabin filter cleaner, longer.

The only thing I'd worry about is rain...is it waterproof in there?

[Road Ruler]

The only thing I'd worry about is rain...is it waterproof in there?

Yes.... the inlet hole is on the firewall behind the battery.