How to Clean an UNI Filter

UNI brand foam air filters are commonly used on off-road vehicles such as Motocross motorcycles as well as many all terrain vehicles. No matter the application, servicing UNI brand filters remain the same. Using chemicals that are not designed for use with UNI filters can destroy the product, shorten the lifespan of the filter or render it less effective against dust and debris. Using gasoline or kerosene to clean a UNI filter will pose a fire hazard as well. (ref#1)

Things You'll Need

  • UNI brand foam filter cleaner
  • UNI brand filter oil
  • Grease cutting dish detergent
  • Cleaning pan or clean bucket
  • Small freezer bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the UNI filter from the engine then separate the filter elements from each other, soak and wash both of the filter elements in a shallow tub or bucket using the foam filter cleaner. Certain UNI filter models do not have two elements.

    • 2

      Squeeze out the excess foam cleaner, being careful not to wring or tear the filter elements. Wash the filter elements in warm soapy water carefully to remove any dirt and debris. Rinse out the air filter elements with water thoroughly and then squeeze dry.

    • 3

      Check for any rips and tears in or around the filter elements; replace defective UNI filters with new units. Set the filters out or hang them up to finish the drying process.

    • 4

      Fill the freezer bag with adequate amounts of UNI filter oil or equivalent. Place the filter elements in the oil soaked bag and carefully work the oil into every pore of the filter elements. Make sure every area of the filter elements is soaked with oil.

    • 5

      Squeeze the excess oil out of both elements being careful not to squeeze out too much, leaving some areas of the filter un-oiled. Return the separated air filter elements back together.

    • 6

      Use a little grease around the mounting surface of the UNI filter to promote a good seal before reinstalling the UNI filter back on the engine. Repeat the filter cleaning process when the unit becomes clogged with dust and debris again.