Air Cleaner Housing: Description and Operation

Air Filter Location:

The air filter assembly removes abrasive particles from incoming air to protect the air mass meter, cylinder walls and other engine components from contamination. It is located in the left front area of the engine compartment. For extremely dirty, dusty and polluted areas, there is an air filter element available (from the Volvo dealer) with a superior filtering ability. It should be used only in such areas.

NOTE: The air filter element is part of the "emission control system warranty". Failure to replace it at the manufacturer recommended intervals can effect Volvo's warranty obligations.

Schematic Air Filter Operation:

The air filter and housing consist of a cover housing, air filter element and the shutter housing that incorporates the air control thermostat.

COVER HOUSING
The cover housing provides an air tight seal (from the outside air) between the two housings. The housing also incorporates the air outlet to the throttle valve.

AIR FILTER ELEMENT
The air filter element cleans the outside air as it flows from the shutter housing through the filter element to the cover housing. It is air flow sensitive and must be installed correctly. The element is sandwiched between the two housings.

SHUTTER HOUSING
The shutter housing incorporates the thermostat, shutter and the air intake ports.
When the ambient temperature is hot, the air enters the housing directly from the outside. If the ambient temperature is cold, the air enters the housing via the exhaust manifold (to preheat the cold air). For more information on the operation and testing of the shutter and thermostat,