cleaning the air filter

[1953P25]

what do I use to clean my air filter. I have heard mixing diesel fuel and kerosene then fallow up with gasoline works well. it does not sound safe to me. 

[TodFitch]

what do I use to clean my air filter. I have heard mixing diesel fuel and kerosene then fallow up with gasoline works well. it does not sound safe to me. 

Car side or truck? Assuming car question, the '46-'54 factory service manual says:

 

Carburetor Air Cleaner--The air cleaner is designed to provide the maximum protection for the engine against the entry of dirt, dust and abrasive particles. It is 98.5% effective when kept clean and filled to the proper level. Inspect the air cleaner every time the car is lubricated. If dirt has reached the lower offset in the reservoir, or if sump is more than 1/2 full of dirt and sludge clean and refill with engine oil. If the car is driven in extremely dusty areas, the air cleaner should be examined more often and serviced as necessary. Check it once a day under exceptionally sandy or dusty conditions.

 

To Service Air Cleaner (Refer to Figure 3) -- Remove cover and filter element and wash in clean kerosene. Remove support bracket screw and loosen clamp screw at bottom of air cleaner. Remove air cleaner base from carburetor. Empty dirty oil from reservoir and clean out the pan.

 

Install air cleaner base making certain gasket is in place on carburetor flange. Fill air cleaner reservoir to indicated level with one pint of SAE 50 oil for temperatures above freezing (+32° F), or with the same amount of SAE 20 engine oil for temperatures below freezing. Install filter element and cover.

It is a good thing to have a copy of the factory service manual.

[1953P25]

^{thank you.}