Clutch filter and method for assembly

A method for installing a filter member in a clutch filter, the clutch filter being configured for filtering a fluid having particulate solids from a clutch, the clutch filter having a conduit member with an inlet end and an outlet end, the clutch filter further having a collection vessel coupled to the outlet end of the conduit member, the collection vessel having a first area in fluid communication with the outlet end, and a second area between an inner surface of the filter member and an exterior surface of the conduit member in fluid communication with the first area, the method comprising:

• disposing the filter member about the exterior surface of the conduit member in a spaced relationship, wherein a portion of an exterior surface of the filter member is not covered by the collection vessel, and the collection vessel being configured to induce the fluid passing into the inlet end of the conduit member to change a fluid flow direction in the first area from a first direction to a second direction substantially opposite the first direction so that a portion of the particulate solids in the fluid from the clutch is deposited in the first area before the fluid passes through the filter member;
• and
• affixing the filter member to the conduit member proximate the inlet end of the conduit member.

A fluid filter for filtering a fluid having particulate solids from a clutch, comprising:

• a conduit member having an inlet end and an outlet end;
• and
• a collection vessel secured to the outlet end, the collection vessel defining a receiving area and having an outlet opening for emptying debris from the receiving area, the collection vessel further comprising a cap for removably covering the outlet opening and the collection vessel further comprising a securement member secured to the conduit member, the securement member having a plurality of tabs for receiving and engaging a first end portion of a filter member disposed about an exterior of the conduit member, wherein an inner surface of the filter member and an exterior surface of the conduit member are in a spaced relationship to define a first area, the first area being in fluid communication with the receiving area, wherein the fluid to be filtered flows into the inlet end of the conduit member and into the receiving area, the collection vessel being configured to induce the fluid to change a fluid flow direction in the receiving area from a first direction to a second direction substantially opposite the first direction so that a portion of the particulate solids in the fluid from the clutch is deposited in the receiving area before the fluid passes through the filter member.