The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Pancake Air Cleaner Filter?

Does anybody know a good replacement filter for one of the dry filters for a 1953 Chevy (pancake air cleaner)? Most of the newer paper filters that would fit are too tall.

I just use a replacement oil-wetted element.

Pays for itself after 4-5 cleanings, rather than “replacings”.

And, it looks “correct”, if anyone ever asks?

I use copper scrub pads.
George

This topic has been addressed many times. The issue which has been brought up is that most paper filters which fit the pancake filter do not flow enough air for Stovebolt inline six engines.
Paper filters have airflow CFM ratings assigned to them. The ones which fit are made for lawnmowers. They restrict airflow due to the fine mesh which protects mower engines from their horrible conditions, and from their small overall size.
Carl

I have experimented with a few different elements for these filters when I do dual carb. intake conversions.

The original filter media appears to be nothing more than aluminum shavings.

Have had the best luck replacing the old media with the copper material found in scrub pads.

I have located a few different paper lawn mower filters that will fit, but as already mentioned.... they do restrict air flow.

[img]https://photos.app.goo.gl/pxsoCspCyfc41sLr5[/img]

I use a K&N #E-3320

Pancake? I raided the kitchen for a cake pan and used a Fram on my 235 when I first got my truck 27 years ago. It looks better now with the 261.

I could only imagine what a cake would taste like after its pan was used like that!! LOL

I used the TALL paper filter, just use a longer screw and may need to trim off the rubber edge to fit better.

Original-style oil-wetted element - $31.50 plus shipping.

No a bad price compared to the cost of replacing several correct-size/correct-flow "paper" elements?

Thank you all for the information. I will probably try to fashion something out of copper scrub pads.

My '46 with tall air cleaners.

My 1940 1 1/2 ton has a pancake filter but it is sealed. Other than opening the canister it seems I can wash it and oil it. With this, the engine is out of a 1939 1 1/2 ton that was complete down to the filter. Is this a factory Chevrolet filter?

I will add a photo once I put it on my website and link it. If I need to move this to Big Bolts let me know.

Thank you

Harmon Hodge

What type of oil does one apply to these copper mesh filters and how do you do it? I'm currently using a paper filter but if infact it does restrict air flow, I need to consider something else.

"wash"/clean filter in any solvent (gasoline ( ) or kerosene/diesel-fuel)
then, dip/drench in engine oil and let drain

How often does one normally clean these filters? What are the warning signs, to clean?

I follow the mileage-instructions in the
Operator's/Owner's Manual - 2,000 mile intervals.

"jstudda"

There are at least 2 paper filters that are a fit in your "pancake" air filter housing:

Wix 42373 and Fram CA77.

I would take the "expert" assertions that they restrict air flow with a huge dose of skepticism. In the real world they work great and no dust gets through them. The color is bright white and as dust accumulates the color of the filter exterior changes giving you a clear indication that it's working. The inside remains bright white.

Ray W

Oh Boy...