£5+ for a tiny bit of foam?! Tanaka trimmer air filter rip off?

[DIYNotIan]

Hi all

I *think* the air filter in my Tanaka trimmer needs changing... There was me thinking perhaps I'd get a bag of them for a few quid, so that I've got some for the future. But no - £5 for one! And that's by far the cheapest i can find; some sites have it for over a tenner!! All for a very small piece of foam.

Here's where I've found the best price:

https://www.japgmowers.co.uk/air-fi...c4500-tb4501-trimmer-part-6690347-35995-p.asp

1. Am I looking in the wrong places?

2. Can you buy non-genuine ones for a lot cheaper and if so how/where do I find them?

3. How do you know when the filter actually needs changing? The one in mine is still whole, but a little bit "damaged". It was wet with fuel when I checked it... Is that a sign of a problem?

Cheers

 

[Burnerman]

The filter will last a lifetime.....after cleaning it only needs replacing if its split, crushed or torn.
Expect the filter to be wet - its part of the two stroke running cycle and a little oil helps trap dust etc.
I’d recommend a genuine replacement as it will be the correct shape and foam density - but you only need one!
John