Air filter box

Probably just over-worrying myself but I went to check my air filter this morning and noticed that the top portion of the air box (lid) was not fully seated. One of the prongs in the back was not through the female clip/hole. I noticed my air box was fairly dirty when I removed the air filter. I took metal ring off the corrugated rubber tube that goes directly into the engine and that area was spotless. I’m worried that excess dirt/dust entered my engine during the ~5kish miles that the air box lid was not seated/sealed right. I do off road with my truck so could that explain the dirtier than average air box if I was in very dusty or muddy terrain? All input appreciated, thanks.

 

Certainly not ideal but I wouldn’t lose sleep. Pull the intake tube at the throttle body and see how much made it to the butterfly. Might be clean as a whistle and put your mind at ease.

 

This is one of the rare instances when a Blackstone oil analysis may be useful if you really want to go overboard. If you haven't changed your oil yet, you can send a sample to them. One of the particles tested for is silicon. If this number is high, then some dirt did come through. Blackstone isn't the only game for this, as Wix has kits as well.

But even if you found out a little dust or dirt was taken in, it most likely didn't cause excess wear. It wasn't like your truck was w/out an air filter, so only a fraction of the air likely bypassed it.

 

I'd just change the oil asap and keep trucking. I noticed the same thing on my wife's 4Runner recently. I'm guessing the dealer checked the filter when they changed her oil and didn't clamp it back down properly. Pissed me off but no sleep lost.

 

Gravity keeps most of the bigger particles down below that level. Keep it proper though it is important, especially at higher rpms.

 

Have you removed the carbon filter in the air box lid? If not, then there’s a pretty low chance anything of any consequence got into the engine. I’d clean it up, change the oil, and keep driving.

 

I think you have a double filter, so I don't think you need to worry too much. and any hose connect to the air intake is a vacuum anyway. so it draw air from engine into the intake.

 

dont know if it matters any more but its not seated properly the tab is supposed to go in the opening.