OEM tractor air filters from brands like Kubota often cost $25 to $65 each, while equivalent aftermarket options range from $12 to $28, delivering substantial savings without compromising performance. Many OEM filters are actually produced by aftermarket giants such as Donaldson, WIX (via Mann+Hummel), and Baldwin, then rebranded for higher dealer markups.

The key to successful substitution lies in matching critical specs: physical dimensions, seal type, and filtration efficiency measured in microns. Top aftermarket options include the Donaldson P822858, WIX 46619, FRAM CA10262, and Baldwin RS3992, which directly replace popular Kubota, John Deere, and New Holland inner air filters.

This guide provides comprehensive tractor air filter cross reference data for Kubota, John Deere, New Holland, Mahindra, and Kioti models, focusing on specifications that ensure perfect fit and protection. For complete specifications, see our Kubota air filter cross-reference chart.

Physical Dimensions and Seal Type

Overall height typically ranges 6-12 inches (150-300mm), outer diameter 4-8 inches (100-200mm), with inner support tubes around 2-3 inches. Radial seal filters compress a rubber gasket against the housing for airtight fit, unlike end cap seals that rely on clamps—critical for high-vibration tractors.

Dual-stage systems include inner safety elements (e.g., 99.99% efficiency) that capture fines bypassing the primary. Mounting orientation matters: vertical housings demand precise clearances, while horizontal setups need side-loading compatibility. The Donaldson P822858 specifies exact dimensions (11.81″ height, 5.39″ OD) with 3/4-16 mounting threads for verification.

Filtration Efficiency and Media Types

Primary elements target 5-10 micron particles at 99.9% efficiency for agricultural dust. Cellulose media handles moderate loads cost-effectively, while synthetic offers 20-30% higher dust capacity and water resistance. Pleat count (50-100+) maximizes surface area up to 100 sq ft, boosting airflow without restriction.

Dust holding capacity exceeds 200g for compact tractors in dusty fields. The WIX 46619 uses cellulose-glass blend with 92 pleats and 83 sq ft surface area—matching OEM specs while costing 50% less.

Critical Design Features

Radial seal integrity prevents bypass leaks, with molded urethane gaskets outperforming foamed ones. Pleat support wires or mesh stop collapse under vacuum, while robust end caps resist cracking. Integrated restriction indicators signal 20-25″ H2O delta-P for timely service.

Kubota Cross-Reference Table

Kubota BX and L-series sub-compact tractors dominate small farms; these cross-references cover popular models with proven aftermarket matches.

John Deere Cross-Reference Table

John Deere 1-3 series compacts and 5E utility tractors require specific inner/outer combinations; verify both elements for complete system protection.

New Holland Cross-Reference Table

New Holland Boomer and Workmaster series share platforms with Case IH Farmall, creating overlapping part numbers across brands.

Mahindra & Kioti Cross-Reference Table

Mahindra Emax and Kioti CK series appeal to budget-conscious hobby farmers; cross-references reduce maintenance costs further.

Donaldson: Industrial-Grade Premium

Donaldson manufactures OEM filters for numerous tractor brands, making their aftermarket line essentially factory quality at lower prices. Their PowerCore and Ultra-Web synthetic media options capture finer particles than standard cellulose while extending service intervals 25-40%.

The Donaldson P822858 features patented radial seal design preventing bypass under high-vacuum conditions—critical for turbocharged diesels. For extreme-duty applications, the Donaldson PowerCore synthetic option delivers 50% longer service life with nanofiber media technology.

Typical pricing runs $18-35 per filter—premium versus budget brands but 40-50% below OEM. For commercial operations logging 500+ annual hours in silage harvest or commercial mowing, Donaldson’s superior dust capacity justifies the investment.

WIX: Best Value for Most Owners

WIX (now Mann+Hummel) delivers the sweet spot between cost and performance for hobby farmers and light-commercial operators. Their cellulose-glass fiber blend media provides 99.5% efficiency at 5 microns—exceeding most OEM specifications—while pricing $12-24 makes frequent replacement affordable.

The WIX 46619 crosses Kubota TA040-93220 with verified dimensions (11.81″ x 5.39″ OD) and 83 sq ft media surface. WIX engineering publishes detailed cross-reference catalogs with actual photos showing seal orientation and internal construction—invaluable for first-time aftermarket buyers.

For weekend warriors running 50-100 annual hours, WIX represents optimal reliability per dollar spent. Their 1-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and widespread distribution through NAPA, O’Reilly, and Amazon ensures availability.

FRAM: Accessible and Adequate

FRAM’s Tough Guard agricultural line targets budget-conscious owners accepting slightly shorter service life. Cellulose media without glass fiber reinforcement captures 98% at 10 microns—meeting minimum standards but offering less margin than premium brands.

The FRAM CA10262 crosses popular Kubota BX applications at $8-22, making it attractive for seasonal users parking tractors 6+ months annually. FRAM’s wide retail presence (Walmart, AutoZone, Advance Auto) enables emergency purchases when NAPA or dealer parts counters close.

For routine mowing on sealed driveways with minimal dust exposure, FRAM performs adequately; avoid for commercial hay operations or construction site work generating heavy particulate loads.

Baldwin: Caterpillar Heritage Quality

Baldwin’s roots manufacturing filters for Caterpillar heavy equipment translate to rugged construction ideal for severe-duty agricultural applications. Their RS-series elements feature extra-thick end caps resisting cracking under vibration and reinforced radial seals compressing 15-20% more than competitors—preventing bypass leaks.

The Baldwin RS3992 matches Kubota TA040-93220 with cellulose-synthetic blend media capturing 99.7% at 5 microns. Pricing $15-28 positions Baldwin between WIX and Donaldson—justified by heavier gauge steel end caps (26-gauge vs 28-gauge competitors) and thicker polyurethane seals.

For operators in high-dust environments (grain harvesting, fertilizer spreading, tillage) or running older tractors with worn intake housings, Baldwin’s robust construction prevents costly bypass failures. Their filters weigh 10-15% more than equivalent WIX models—tangible evidence of beefier components.

NAPA Gold: WIX Quality, Local Availability

NAPA Gold filters are manufactured by WIX with identical specifications—only the paint color differs (gold vs silver). The NAPA Gold 6619 crosses WIX 46619 exactly, sharing the same 92-pleat design and 83 sq ft surface area.

Pricing typically matches WIX at $12-24, with NAPA’s 14,000+ store network providing same-day availability versus 1-2 day Amazon shipping. NAPA Commercial accounts offer 10-15% discounts for fleet buyers servicing multiple tractors—valuable for landscaping companies or agricultural contractors.

K&N Washable Filters: Reusable Alternative

For owners seeking long-term cost savings, K&N washable tractor air filters offer a reusable alternative to disposable elements. Made from layered cotton gauze with oil treatment, K&N filters can be cleaned and re-oiled every 50-100 hours instead of replaced.

While initial cost runs $40-80 (2-4x disposable filters), the 10-year/million-mile warranty means one K&N filter replaces 10-20 disposable elements over a tractor’s life. Cleaning requires K&N’s proprietary filter cleaner and oil kit ($15-20), adding $1-2 per service versus $12-28 for new disposable filters.

Best for: Commercial operators with regular maintenance schedules. Avoid for: Seasonal users who might skip proper cleaning/re-oiling procedures.

Tools and Materials

Have a compatible replacement filter, basic hand tools (screwdriver/wrench), shop towels, and flashlight ready. Additional helpful items:

• Air filter cleaner spray for housing cleaning
• Foam pre-cleaner wrap for outer element protection
• Restriction indicator gauge for proactive monitoring
• Vacuum with brush attachment for debris removal

Step-by-Step Replacement

Step 1: Access and inspection. Park on level ground, shut off engine, set brake, and let engine cool. Open hood and locate air filter housing, then unlatch or unbolt the cover. Inspect inside for debris, nests, or moisture that could indicate prior restriction or leaks.

Step 2: Remove old filter. Note orientation arrows and carefully slide out the primary element (and inner safety element if equipped) to avoid dumping dirt into the intake. Examine pleats for dark uniform loading, tears, or collapse.

Step 3: Clean housing. Wipe the housing with clean towels and, if needed, air filter cleaner spray, keeping chemicals out of the intake tract. Vacuum remaining dust and check sealing surfaces for cracks or warping.

Step 4: Install new filter. Verify the new element’s seal is supple and undamaged, then insert following directional markings until the radial seal seats fully and evenly. Any gap or misalignment defeats the micron rating and lets unfiltered air bypass.

Step 5: Outer element service. Foam pre-cleaners can be washed with mild detergent, dried completely, then lightly oiled and reinstalled. This outer wrap captures coarse debris and significantly extends primary filter life.

Step 6: Final checks. Reinstall cover, secure all latches/bolts, and confirm any restriction indicator is reset or shows green. Start tractor and listen for abnormal intake noises.

Service Intervals

In clean/dry conditions, many manufacturers recommend changing primary air filters every 200–300 hours, with inspections at shorter intervals. In dusty mowing or loader work, 50–100 hour intervals may be appropriate.

• Clean conditions: 200-300 hours
• Moderate dust: 100-150 hours
• Heavy dust: 50-75 hours
• Foam pre-cleaners: Clean every 25-50 hours

For Kubota-specific intervals, see our complete maintenance schedule guide.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Air Filter Products by Application

Essential Accessories

Complement filters with foam pre-cleaner wraps, housing cleaner spray, and restriction indicators for maximum service life and engine protection.

For related maintenance resources, explore our complete Kubota filter cross-reference master chart covering hydraulic, fuel, and oil filters. Our complete Kubota maintenance guide provides comprehensive schedules for all systems.

For comprehensive tractor maintenance guides, parts cross-references, and troubleshooting resources covering all compact tractor systems, visit the Tractor Parts Central homepage.