Bosch Filter Pictured - Use without concern or Reject ?

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Oct 16, 2002
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694
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Joplin
I purchased a couple of Bosch oil filters (#3323) from RockAuto. I noted one of them is showing an adhesive blob / drip down on top of the metal bypass cover at the bottom of the center opening. I want to be certain that this will not become separated during it’s use because it is on the “clean-oil” side and would go right up into the engine.

These filters were made in Mexico and I am happy to use it if this workmanship is normal and acceptable? I do note the other filters do not show this condition.

A few decades ago in my youth, I worked a short time at an oil filter manufacturing plant here in the US. (That plant has long closed and was moved I believe to Mexico.) When the filters were moving down the manufacturing line they were all of the same size, design and construction (for a given run). What was different where the boxes toward the end of the line that the filters went in. I can remember these boxes: Firestone, STP, K-mart and Shell (I believe there were also others but these I remember). It’s been so long I can’t be sure but it seems like they may have also had the ability to paint a color strip on the white shells and that color could be changed. For example Firestone got red, the Shell got a yellow strip, some got no strip and were entirely white etc. I may be wrong about this part as maybe it was just the different colored boxes that I am remembering?

I’m only speculating but it may be the same with these black filters made at a plant in Mexico. What may make it a Bosch is the label that is stuck on the side of the canister, and then the unique box. Other brands could be the same filter with their on respective labels and boxes.

Anyway, what about this glue or adhesive in the picture – use the filter without reservation or reject it?

IMG_4783.webp


IMG_4781.webp
 
What do louvers look like? I used to buy and like those filters for Honda/Acura use, ever since they started coming from Mexico they came with pretty much closed louvers. I didn't catch that right away and had to ditch 4 new filters as I was past exchange/return time with RA.
 
As mentioned earlier on another thread mine was way worse than that. Your engine might not be able to digest even a small amount of an adhesive like that. There may be more you can't see. Imagine if you were getting an IV and the bottle/bag had some sediment in the bottom. Would that make you nervous?

It would give me pause.
 
Generally speaking the hecho en Mexico Bosch Premium filters have been of poor quality. Issues with excess glue, poorly formed to closed louvers, and lousy pleat spacing uniformity have shown up here in posted anecdotes. Personally wouldn't even consider purchase now.

Otoh, I've posted multiple c&p of the US made BP 3323 purchased from RA before the change in coo, all have been excellent. As for topic filter, from pics can't say definitely. I guess if in doubt, pass, or cut one open to see what it looks like, then use the other if ok.
 
Bought 2 Bosch hecho en Mexico for my Honda K-24 off of Amazon. Something like 30% off on the price. Got lucky with them, passed the flashlight test. But, after reading all the posts, and seeing the glue on the bypass, will not purchase again.
 
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