E-Core Champion Filters

[badmikey]

I opened up a Supertech, AC Delco, Fram and Carquest (Wix) filter for my 02 Saturn SL2. The Supertech, STP, AC Delco are all identical Champion E core filters in every way. They have exact same media, duel anti-drainback and bypass valve etc. I also noticed none have metal end caps but a end cap similiar to the Fram. For some reason the Fram did not have the cardboard glued on end caps but some type of filter media end cap matching the E-core filters. Last time I cut open a Fram it was easy to tell it was some type of cardboard/fiberboard sloppilly glued on. Anyone know whats up? Alot of people swear by the E-core filters, any advantage to the metal end caps found in the Purolator/WIX made products? Any advantage to the WIX actual coil spring vs the flimsy looking stamped metal spring (ie filter hold down element or spring)? The spring is supposed to keep the right amount of pressure on the filter cartridge to keep it seeled against the anti-drain back valve. Also how tight does everyone put on their filter? I feel if you go more than 3/4 to 1 turn after the filter contacts the base somehow you distort things and effect the inner workings of the filter.

 

[Triple_Se7en]

You are the first to report that the Supertech has the same amount of pleats as the STP. Are you sure about that?

I hand-tighten the filter as much as I can - then use the wrench to give it another half-turn. Never any leaks - even after uninstalling - then emptying the old oil - then reusing the same filter and gasket for another 3K.

 

[wgtoys]

" You are the first to report that the Supertech has the same amount of pleats as the STP"

On the contrary, I have yet to see anyone post evidence that there are differences in E-core filters depending upon the brand on the outside. All indications seem to be that an e-core filter by any other name smells just the same.

 

[badmikey]

Not only does the Supertech have the exact same amount of pleats as the STP, it has the same amount as the AC Delco. One thing about the E-cores they look like they have excellent flow rates as the core is not restrictive at all.

 

[badmikey]

Triple Se7en where did you get the insane idea to reuse an oil filter in such a manner? You are better off buying the cheapest filter possible and change it every oil change even the hated Fram. Most nitral anti-drainback valves, the filter hold down element(spring) and nitral gasket are not meant to run over 3,000mi or meant for re-use. These filters are designed for 3,000mi may make 4,000 but are not meant as extended change interval filters.

 

[obbop]

You just KNEW it was coming.............

 

[badmikey]

OK if I knew how to take pics and post online I would. If you do not believe me cut one of each open, I have no reason to lie or deceive anyone, I believe we should post facts and help one and other.

 

[Triple_Se7en]

Quote:

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Triple Se7en where did you get the insane idea to reuse an oil filter in such a manner? You are better off buying the cheapest filter possible and change it every oil change even the hated Fram. Most nitral anti-drainback valves, the filter hold down element(spring) and nitral gasket are not meant to run over 3,000mi or meant for re-use. These filters are designed for 3,000mi may make 4,000 but are not meant as extended change interval filters.

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Don't believe what the filter manufacturer tells you. They all want us to change our filters more often. That puts more money in their pockets. There are a ton of reports here of Supertech filters lasting beyond 6K.

As far as pleat-counting goes, there is a recent thread-discussion where the STP was found to have more pleats than the Supertech. In that thread, I think I asked the thread-starter to see if the STP had a better nitrile ADBV and slightly thicker outer shell also.... but I don't recall exactly what I wrote right now.

Since this is the internet & anything can be said here without proof or honesty, do you have pics of both open filters? Was the AC Delco you used American-made or Made In Mexico?

 

[badmikey]

SUperTech, AC Delco & STP are all products of USA. I tripple checked the pleat count and they were the same in all. Will try to post pics this weekend when my computer guru (my son) is around. The nitril ADBV and shell are all the same also. Perhaps there is a difference if I'd have happened to pick up Mexican made vs all American.

 

[badmikey]

One thing I did not do is open the actual Champion brand E-core but I bet if US made it's all the same.

 

[JTK]

I'm not scared of the plastic cage anymore. I recently cut open an E-Core STP filter from Autozone that I took off my Mom & Dad's 2003 Buick Rendezvous 3.4L. It was in use for ~5Kmi with Kendall GT-1 5w-30. I was impressed with the looks of the innards. The media was tough and springy with nice deep, evenly spaced pleats. This filter did have a fiber type of end cap that was bonded to the media. It took some force to tear that end cap off. I wouldn't hesitate to run a champion labs E-Core to 6Kmi+, atleast for the GM 3.X pushrodders.

Joel

 

[sw99]

Quote:

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Triple Se7en where did you get the insane idea to reuse an oil filter in such a manner? You are better off buying the cheapest filter possible and change it every oil change even the hated Fram. Most nitral anti-drainback valves, the filter hold down element(spring) and nitral gasket are not meant to run over 3,000mi or meant for re-use. These filters are designed for 3,000mi may make 4,000 but are not meant as extended change interval filters.

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hahahahahahahahahaa

 

[sw99]

And by the way... I almost always use my filters through two 5K OCI's. Just like Triple Se7en, I pull it off at the oil change, clean it, check the seal and re-install.