Cartridge Filter vs. Traditional Encased Filter ?

[Kira]

Hello, 1)The cartridge on the bottom of my engine, a Volvo 5 cyl. "white engine", is just fine. The drips you get upon removal don't go all over the place. Plus I always percieved "down low" as a good direction for collected dirt to go. I must get a look at one of these high mounted cartridge filters. They must not spill or somebody would've said something.
2)Does anybody know why cartridge filters cost so much more at retail? My Volvo's cartridge weighs in at ~$12. Not a biggie since the internet vendors always have lower prices and frequently have specials. You'd think the insert would be alot cheaper. Less material + fewer parts to assemble = cheaper. Kira

 

[OVERKILL]

Originally Posted By: fdcg27
To me, spin-ons are easier and more idiot proof.
My 123 diesels had massive cartridge filters, as have both of my BMWs.
The 123 diesel filter was really easy to change.
To appreciate how large it is, consider that it has a little wire handle with which you pull it out.
I find the BMW filter housing cover a bit of a PITA.
It is easy to get it to not seal around the bolt that runs through the filter and holds it down, although I may be doing something wrong.
The GM Ecotec design is flawless and easy to change.
Did one once as a favor. An easy oil change on an engine I had never touched before, and likely never will again.
Any cartridge filter that must be accessed from the bottom of the vehicle is an automatic fail.


There is no "bolt" on mine..... The filter element just "clips" into the canister lid, and then slides down over the tube in the base as you install it.