Is there any reason to replace the filter cap on the Ecotec? Of course if it is broken but if there are no obvious issues, is there a life cycle or anything? I wouldn't think that the bypass spring in the cap is quite as durable as one in the block would be.
Ecotec Filter Cap
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JHZR2
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Originally Posted By: Samilcar
I put a replacement cap on my Ecotec simply because it was cheap ($12 with new filter) and was an improved design over the original. The original was working fine though.
I think the cap change was related to a change in filter spec'. The new filters (PF457G) will work on the old cap but old filters (PF456G) will not work on the new cap. Something to do with the way the filter clips to the cap I believe I read somewhere.
Every filter I have purchased had a new oring with it I think. And mine was already changed to a black one when I got it.
JHZR2
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I've bought Pure one and OE ones. No Orin in the p1, and the OE ones sell it separate.
All I have ever used is Wix or Napa Gold and one Tough Guard. They all came with orings. Going to get a BaLdwin for next time and I thing they do as well but I'm not sure.
JHZR2
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Please let me know. I like p1, but would love to try Baldwin.
Will do. It will probably be in the next few weeks, don't need it yet but I want to do the cabin filter so I'm going grab one then.
If it isn't cracked, don't buy a new one.
I had my 2003 Saturn ION for about 90,000 miles and 8 years, and the filter cap was fine after numerous oil changes.
My dad has a 2007 Pontiac G6 he bought in the summer of 2006, and his oil filter cap is fine. He has about 90,000 miles, and his filter cap is fine.
As long as you use the proper tool on the filter cap, it will be fine.
I'm at 122,000 miles and have not replaced the cap either, nor have I replaced the O-ring. No leaks.
Some people have reported sealing issues using the aftermarket O-rings. If I decided I need a new O-ring, I'd get an AC-Delco one, which probably means getting a new cap as well.
I've seen a few caps that look like people have tried to chew them off the car with their teeth. I suspect it comes from using an open wrench (or vise grips perhaps) on it. Don't do that! Buy the proper shallow socket and it'll last a very long time.
And don't overtighten the cap when you replace the filter.
Originally Posted By: JHZR2
Originally Posted By: Samilcar
I put a replacement cap on my Ecotec simply because it was cheap ($12 with new filter) and was an improved design over the original. The original was working fine though.
Actually samilcar is really on to something here. I can't find it anymore but there was a TSB out on this very issue. It said if your eco-tec filter cap has squared off edges on it, like an octagon or hexagon, replace it immedietly with a new style cap that has round on the edges. The older style cap with square edges were causing oil starvation problems and they also were less robust of a design than the new rounded ones. I got one for my pontiac from advance auto parts right away after I read this. I do notice less valve tick now, which is a common problem for the eco-tec
Makes more sense, the difference in the clips was probably just to prevent mixing the old filter with the new cap. There were no technical links on the thread that i had read.
I am not sure if it was BITOG that I saw the TSB but it is out there somewhere. Do a thorough google search and you will find it somewhere, I'm sure. I believe the TSB came out in the 2002-2003 time frame so it is old and you will have to look hard.
Either way, Plastic soaking in oil and being exposed to constant hot/cold, hot/cold, patterns doesn't give me the confidence that it lasts forever either. It is like 13 bucks, cheap peace of mind.
Originally Posted By: AMC
Either way, Plastic soaking in oil and being exposed to constant hot/cold, hot/cold, patterns doesn't give me the confidence that it lasts forever either. It is like 13 bucks, cheap peace of mind.
The plastic cap of my '00 E430 with 13x,xxx miles is still in excellent shape, I don't see any reason to change it. I don't know the quality of the Ecotec cap so I have no comment on if it is needed to change every once in a while.
Originally Posted By: JHZR2
Please let me know. I like p1, but would love to try Baldwin.
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