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Cabin Air Filter Service

Posted: Sat Aug 01, 2009 9:59 am
by OLLIE
Other than the cleaning inside the vehicle, we often only think about servicing the outside of our vehicles. Don't forget your cabin air filter. I was setting at work this morning and realized that I hadn't checked mine in a few months. So I ran out and took a look at it. I was very disappointed with myself when I saw the results.

Here's what I found after I'd shaken it out a bit.
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When I first got my truck I realized the flimsy factory filter would never do the job based on the environments I exposed the truck to. It was a pleated filter that was toilet paper thin. Not to mention the fact the replacements ranged from $18 to $40.

Here's a picture of the factory filter.
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I replaced it with a 2 stage blanket media filter that does a much better job of filtration and can be cleaned rather easily. Additionally, it is much cheaper.

Here's the picture of the new filter.
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Re: Cabin Air Filter Service

Posted: Sat Aug 01, 2009 12:13 pm
by cruiserlarry
A good rule is to check all the filters / fluids at every oil change service...

The FJ cabin filter does a pretty amazing job of catching dirt and debris before it gets into the ventilation system. (and thank you Ollie for suggesting I upgrade the filter medium many moons ago :D ) Since most vehicles have no cabin filters, it's scary the stuff you are breathing in the vehicle when the A/C or heater is in the "fresh" mode...

Re: Cabin Air Filter Service

Posted: Mon Aug 10, 2009 6:42 pm
by BruisedFJ
Where can I get the 'upgraded' filter, if not at Dirty Parts. :D

Re: Cabin Air Filter Service

Posted: Mon Aug 10, 2009 10:17 pm
by cruiserlarry
bruisedFJ wrote:Where can I get the 'upgraded' filter, if not at Dirty Parts. :D
Well, Dirty Parts had to leave something for Home Depot to sell :lol: :lol: :lol:

Seriously, you can pick up a standard home A/C filter with charcoal layer at any hardware store - they run around $20 or so, and can usually be cut into 4-6 cabin filters (to share with friends ;) )

Re: Cabin Air Filter Service

Posted: Mon Aug 10, 2009 11:35 pm
by OLLIE
bruisedFJ wrote:Where can I get the 'upgraded' filter, if not at Dirty Parts. :D
PM sent.