DIY air cleaner

[JamesT]

I have a 1988 Honda Elite 50 scooter that I plan to sell. Problem is, the air cleaner foam is starting to degrade, and I need to replace it. Bigger problem is, the part is no longer available. It's just a sheet of quarter inch (or less) foam that's been die cut to fit the housing, and would be easy enough to duplicate. I've seen similar foam used in packaging, but who knows if it would serve the same purpose. Has anyone found a suitable material?

[pchast]

Try Air Conditioner Foam?

[JamesT]

pchast...

Thanks a lot. I hadn't thought of that. I see that some AC filters are 1/4" thick, and are polyurethane, so they might be a match. Easy enough to see if they withstand oil and gas. Best of all, only five bucks for a lifetime supply.

[Gummiente]

Try here: 1988 Honda Elite Air Filter

[JamesT]

Thanks, Mike. That's a different model Elite (didn't know there was one). Mine's an SA50. A dealer ran a check a couple years ago and said it was discontinued, but I have seen a couple offered on the Internet. They just don't look like mine. Probably too many model changes.

[Gummiente]

Thanks, Mike. That's a different model Elite (didn't know there was one). Mine's an SA50. A dealer ran a check a couple years ago and said it was discontinued, but I have seen a couple offered on the Internet. They just don't look like mine. Probably too many model changes.

Could very well be. If you're going to make your own air filter, though, don't just use ANY foam... you are right in thinking that the material needs to be oil and gas resistant, but you also need to keep in mind that it has to allow enough airflow to make the motor run right but at the same time filter out any damaging particles. With this in mind, your best bet is to go to an auto parts supply store and tell them what you're looking for; they might have the proper foam in stock or could direct you towards an existing foam filter that you can simply cut to size.

[pchast]

Yes, that's a better answer.

[BuzZz]

You want open cell foam.

You do not want closed cell foam.

If the guy at the counter doesn't know what you're talking about, go someplace else.

[JamesT]

Thanks, guys. I'll check around tomorrow.