A cam lock system for an air intake filter housing is provided that includes a clevis rod adapted for connection to a bolt on the air intake filter housing; a cam handle; a filter clamp coupled to the cam handle, the filter clamp having one or more cam surfaces thereon, the cam handle and filter clamp pivotally connected to a first end of the clevis rod; a spring carrier disposed at the second end of the clevis rod; and a spring disposed on the clevis rod and restrained between the spring carrier and a washer disposed on the clevis rod. The cam surface engages the washer and pivotal movement of the cam handle and filter clamp causes compression of the spring via the washer to provide clamping force to secure an air filter element in the air intake filter housing.