Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Guys,

I have an IO-320- D1A engine in my plane with what looks like a typical Piper style air filter. The housing looks like a banjo. The air filter is a Fram CA144PL filter element and is very expensive when puchased through the local aircraft supply house.

I use to work for Canadian Fram and had a buddy do a cross reference for me. It turns out that this filter was originally developed for the 1958 Desoto. The equivalent automotive filter is about $13.00 and available from many suppliers.

Best regards,

Jim Mantyla

Thank you Jim. That's the type of air filter I have. This tip is very helpful.

Been stewing on this for a bit. Just consider how well a paper filter performs when wet before you substitute quality for price. Fuel injection systems are supposed to have an alternate air source for this and other reasons. Have to admit I don't have an alternate air source, but I do have a high quality non-paper filter (K&N).

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

Hi Bob,

When I worked at Fram, we tested the filter for the effects of water. They don't turn to mush or deform to, inturn block the intake as you imply. The Fram filter bought at the automotive source is exactly the same as the one bought from the aircraft supply house. The K&N may be a good permanent alternative. What is the part number we need for the injected engines? This would be good info for the group.

Best regards,

Jim

Good report! I received a post that said we should consider a shield in front of the filter where the air enters. I have seen this on auto types, as well.

I made my filter housing many years ago to fit a '67 Chevy Nova filter. I had a heck of a time finding the equivalent K&N part. Speed shop had to order. Similar in size to Van's. They bend theirs oval to fit.

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

I always wondered what the "shield" was inside my 1965 Ford Ranchero Air Filter housing ? BOOM !

RB

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