Oil & Oil Filters

[oemtech]

I just switched my Cruiser to Mobil 1 5w30. In the process I am taken various oil filters apart. So far I have found that the AC Delco PF53 and the Wal Mart/Tech 2K 3614 are basicly the same filter. I purchased a Mopar filter to make the change and find it to be the same as a Motorcraft but 2x in price. I plan to test a Motorcraft FL 400s (same as 3600 - big brother to 3614) which about 100% more filter than the 3614. Only problem I see is that you will have to remove the filter before draining the oil as it looks like it will cover the oil plug.

Comments?

[Crash]

I have been Using the Fram 3600 and it doesnot cover the plug. It gets close but it will clear the filter to be able to drain it first. Whitch reminds me I have to do it again this weekend. Someone i think on PT DIY has a chart of filters and alternets.

2001 Touring

Edited by - crash on 12/15/2001 02:09:55

[CREWZIN]

CRASH...I hope you mean the Fram 3614 instead of the 3600. I'm about to do my 9th oil change and have been using the 3614 since the first time, plus 5 quarts of Castrol SYNTEC 5W30 <img src=icon_smile_shock.gif border=0 align=middle>

CREWZIN

[oemtech]

Just finished cutting all the filters apart. It looks like the PF53, Super Tech (Wal Mart) are made by the same company. The can, base plate, spring, filter media and rubber seal all look to be the same. The Mopar and Motorcraft look to be made by the same company. But, the Motorcraft filter has deflector washer under the silcone seal and a larger spring. The Mopar filter has plain rubber seal (smooth no ribs) and no return holes in the top of the filter media cover. All the filters have from 50 to 56 pleates of filter media. The Motorcraft has 69 pleates.

I think the Motorcraft FL 400s is the best choice as a replacement so far. This filter will fit and provides about 125% more filter media do to size and number pleates.

[Crash]

The 3600 is identical to the 3614 but with about 50% more filter area. So it will filter more before it starts to back up. it also allows more oil to flow through to better lubercate the motor... but dosent change the pressure provided by the oil pump. I have been using oversize filters sinde i started building cars and never experienced any problems. then again I may take better care than most. This trick of oversize filters was shown to me by a Pro Drag racer I used to work for. He owned a body shop on the side that i painted at. If you are on thier endorsement list ( he still is) You can call the company who makes the filters and they will tell you what will work and what wont. Chrysler makes filter decesions with thier wallet.[u] Cost over necessity</u>. so it only makes sense to upgrade your oil filter , just like people do with their air filter!

2001 Touring
smoked back up lights, red turn signals, adjustable antenna, pedal covers