In this month’s tech talk, Carl talks about the different filters on your motorcycle.
Air filters clean the air so that dust, sand, or even bigger particles do not end up in your cylinders. A quality double-layer or triple-layer is a must-have for dual-sport riding. Most air filters are cleanable and can be re-oiled, providing you many miles of protection. A simple cleaning process uses a large plastic bag with your dirty filter and air filter cleaner solvent (do not use gasoline), or hot water and lots of grease-cutting dish soap. You can massage the filter with your hands outside the bag until it is clean. Move the filter to the top of the bag, squeeze out the excess cleaner, and remove from the bag. Re-oiling your filter can be done in the same manner. Place your clean filter in a new plastic bag and add air filter oil. Massage the filter until it is coated, but not soaked. Some motorcycles have a secondary “breather” filter, and the same process can be used to clean those.
Oil filters are also very important for protecting your motor. As your motor runs, tiny bits of metal will wear and get picked up by your engine oil. Your oil filter is designed to capture these particles and prevent them from getting into bearings, piston, and other areas that could cause excessive wear. Every time you change your motor oil, you should also change your oil filter, along with the o-rings that go on the filter caps and drain plugs to ensure the oil system is properly sealed. Keeping your oil clean will do a lot to ensure a long engine life.
Fuel filters prevent dirty fuel from contaminating your carburetor and engine. In-line fuel filters are inexpensive, easy-to-install, and catch contaminates in your tank from getting into your fuel system. Be sure to pack extras for long trips. Gas cap or tank filters are useful in catching sludge and other particles before they get into your tank in the first place. These are especially useful for visiting out-of-the-way gas stations where the gas may have been sitting for a while, saving yourself a lot of potential grief
