Originally Posted By: bigmike
Originally Posted By: GMBoy
I can't figure out what may have happened or why. BUT - as crazy as this may sound, maybe it could have happened: The OP noted in the thread that this filter was run on a vehicle with very short commutes. Short commutes, we all know, introduces a lot of excess fuel and water into the oil since it doesn't get the chance to burn off like with longer trips. Now - just what if, water was in the filter and froze - spreading the pleats. Then, when started, the oil pressure forced a sharp piece if ice thru the filter making the hole??
I know, probably not possible, but nobody has any better theories yet.
I'm looking for the second shooter on the grassy knoll.
Well, let's ponder it for a moment.
Water in the oil will settle out in the pan and form a clean line if it's not yet emulsified. I've had oil sitting in jugs having an inch of clear water in the bottom. This would surely freeze if exposed to cold enough temps.
I've dumped out ice "donuts" out of my water separator on my Pukeout 504 diesel.
So, I'd say that if it sat long enough, with a significant water level, that ice could form in the filter.
Anyone got an emulsified oil that they can throw in the freezer? That should give a good indicator if it can hurt a filter.
Heck, take the cut up filter here and throw it in the freezer. See what it feels like when you take it out.