Received from RockAuto today a order of 20ea CHAMP / LUBER-FINER P1009 oil filters for the 3.6L Pentastar in pretty bad shape. Fresh out of the first box I opened, I was bestowed a "MADE IN BRAZIL" marked filter that had excess glue coming out the endcaps, wide pleat spacing at the seam and some pleats not potted on the ends at the seam. Further inspection of the remaining filters showed the same conditions with some even having excess glue on the inner tube return side of the filters.
I have ordered these filters in the past from RA and either received CHAMP labeled ones made in the USA or LUBE-FINER made in China filters that were perfectly fine. I have seen the similar thing with some of the FRAM CH11665 filters on the shelf at Walmart also made in Brazil and somewhat excessive glue. I suspect First Brands is pulling from the same source for these also.
I have started the return process with RA and will see how that goes.
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