Cleaning Air Filter on 1936 Ford

[CaliforniaBorn36]

I did a search, but came up empty. The Decal on my aircleaner says to clean every 1000 miles. How does one clean the filter. It is the type pictured for sale in the Swap Meet, listed as 1935.

I took off the top plate but do not see any way to actually remove the filter material, (Screening and fiber), which is in the openings.

If you can describe how to clean it, then what prep is necessary when putting it back in service, or just clean, remount and off to the races.

Also, mine does not have anything under the top cover. The one in the Swap Meet looks like there is something fiberous under the cover as well. What is that material, and anyone know where it is available?

Thanks for your input!

[JM 35 Sedan]

That filter material is difficult to remove on a '34 to '36 air cleaner. Some will say they cut the three support legs at the top, remove the old filter material and replace with new. Then solder/braze those legs back in place. I have soaked the entire air cleaner in solvent and air hosed the filter to clean it. Sometimes I had to repeat this soaking and air a couple times to get it clean.
The piece that goes under the lid is a fibrous jute/felt like material that I do not recall being offered by any antique parts dealers. Would not be that difficult to make something like this.

[flat-v8]

I just done mine, got the kit from the Tenn guy, 3rd Generation Auto on Ebay. It is a Biatch of a job, but with all new copper material in there it looks cool!

[ford38v8]

Show quality copper filter material:

Chore Boy Copper Scouring Pads: Get 'em while you can, copper prices are out in space. (Still available on the internet.)

They are electric spot welded, but the weld will separate without damage if you use some care. Unfolds into a loop, push-pull the loop for re-sizing to fit the air cleaner. As John says, the early filters have the three supports to cut and re-braze, the later filters are easier.

Ford's instructions are to clean with gasoline, and re-oil. Both are on your engine's regular diet.

[Hank the 36]

Can someone supply some photos please ?

[FL&WVMIKE]

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CaliforniaBorn36 ....................
I clean mine, exactly how they have done it since the 30s. I just swish some gasoline through it.
That extra piece is just a very think piece of felt like material.
MIKE

[Dick]

Hank,
Here is a picture. And better shots of the pad.
Not sure what it's for - sound deadening or cushion the top to keep it's shape??

[flat-v8]

This is what you need!