I went to replace the external foam filter media on our M35B and spotted some "shiny flakes of metal" inside the wire mesh air filter housing. I removed the air filter assembly from the engine and discovered that the aluminum mesh core was disintegrating. It contained numerous small fragments as can be seen in the photo. I believe the wire screen at the base of the filter body prevented any from being sucked into the engine (hopefully, as the engine seems to run fine).
I was aware the foam has a tendency to breakdown, but not aware that the aluminum mesh core also has a finite life.
I have a new air filter assembly on order from CD.
—
Paul & Wendy Keyser
"First Light"
Rye NH
2005 C36 MKII #2257
Wing, M35B
Suggestion,
Replace with a K&N filter, I.e. RU 0260. Just a thought.
Eladio Vallina
C-36 TR EUREKA II
Hull 1122 (1991)
Home port Barcelona (Spain).
Thanks. The K&N RU-0260 seems like a good alternative, but availability appears to be an issue.
Paul & Wendy Keyser
"First Light"
Rye NH
2005 C36 MKII #2257
Wing, M35B
Auto zone auto parts has them in stock. $55?
https://www.autozone.com/intake-system/custom-air-filter/p/k-n-ru-0260-s...
peter g
2000 C36, MK2, Hull. #1897
wonderful, wonderful, wonderful ! ! !. 5 th Catalina
Odd. The local Advanced Auto Parts couldn't locate any in their system.
Paul & Wendy Keyser
"First Light"
Rye NH
2005 C36 MKII #2257
Wing, M35B
I agree Paul. My local store came up with a KN 2600. I've ordered one, if it doesn't fit, I'll take it back for refund. My follow up will be late July 2023. Stay tuned...
peter g
2000 C36, MK2, Hull. #1897
wonderful, wonderful, wonderful ! ! !. 5 th Catalina
Peter-
There appears to be plenty room for an elongated air filter on the side of our M35B engine, so that expands the options as long as the new filter base matches the diameter of the filter mount on the intake manifold..
That said, I ordered a new filter from CD last week so I'll stick with the OEM replacement approach, which lasted for 17 years. I noticed the aluminum mesh core creates virtually zero resistance to airflow. Unlike an automobile air filter that is designed for fine sand, road dust and dirt, I think the Universal Engine OEM filter is designed for blocking larger contaminants, but wouldn't fair well in an automobile.
Paul & Wendy Keyser
"First Light"
Rye NH
2005 C36 MKII #2257
Wing, M35B