I have read alot about flow on this board, some real good stuff. As the different filters are discussed here regarding flow and lack of it on some, I was wondering, what about the engines requirements? Should't that play into consideration? Don't different engines have different flow rate requirements? Don't you really need to know what the max flow rate is on your vehicle? I want the best filtration possible, and if my truck doesn't require a 5+ (example) gpm filter then wouldn't you be better off with a filter that can accomidate that and give the most filtration? I am thinking from the reading here, that you are better off to find what is the max flow needed, and then look for a filter. Be easy on me guys, I'm a raw rookie, Larry
Flow
- Thread starter llbts1
- Start date
- Status
The engine maker picks (or invents) the filter they want on that engine. We can only guess at some of the reasons why they pick each factor that goes into selecting a filter.
The aftermarket filter makers, Fram, Champ Labs, WIX, etc., then reverse engineer the OE filter to come up with their recommended filter. Either they pick one from their existing inventory, or they manufacture a new filter to meet the specs they derived from the OE filter.
So, any filter that's recommended for your engine by any filter maker probably is right for that engine. You do have to ask why some filter lines, WIX, Baldwin/Hastings, etc., feel like they need hundreds of filters in their catalog for passenger cars and light trucks, and other makers list far fewer filter models for the same cars and trucks. There are compromises made.
So...stick with OE or pick a filter from a reputable line. Some folks think that a filter which is bigger than OE is better, but we don't know enough about the innards of the filter to be sure.
Ken
The aftermarket filter makers, Fram, Champ Labs, WIX, etc., then reverse engineer the OE filter to come up with their recommended filter. Either they pick one from their existing inventory, or they manufacture a new filter to meet the specs they derived from the OE filter.
So, any filter that's recommended for your engine by any filter maker probably is right for that engine. You do have to ask why some filter lines, WIX, Baldwin/Hastings, etc., feel like they need hundreds of filters in their catalog for passenger cars and light trucks, and other makers list far fewer filter models for the same cars and trucks. There are compromises made.
So...stick with OE or pick a filter from a reputable line. Some folks think that a filter which is bigger than OE is better, but we don't know enough about the innards of the filter to be sure.
Ken
lbts1, an OEM filter is tailor made to a particular car engine or line of engines that a manufacturer produces. Owners interested in maximum vehicle reliability and durability should use OEM filters.
Aftermarket filters like Fram, Wix, K&N, Amsoil, etc, are "one size fits all" type filters. They are designed for car owners who are so not fussy about reliability and durability or who want the filter to serve some other special function. For example, K&N filters are popular with owners who value the "cool looks" and extra induction noise they provide. It makes a social statement when your car looks and sounds fast even though it isn't
Aftermarket filters like Fram, Wix, K&N, Amsoil, etc, are "one size fits all" type filters. They are designed for car owners who are so not fussy about reliability and durability or who want the filter to serve some other special function. For example, K&N filters are popular with owners who value the "cool looks" and extra induction noise they provide. It makes a social statement when your car looks and sounds fast even though it isn't
Patting filter manufacturers on the back for their OEM work only to knock them down for private label filters doesn't make much sense. Unless someone here is involved with filter manufacturing and has details I think we're treading far off the FUD nature trail into speculation forest.
"Thar be monsters hyr."
David
"Thar be monsters hyr."
David
Patman
Staff member
Wrong! Perfect example, up here in Canada Dana makes the OEM AC Delco filters, as well as Wix filters too. But the OEM filters get low end media, cheaper antidrainback valves, and a weaker canister. The Wix filters flow better, use a partially fibreglass media, and have a silicone ADBV and a higher burst strength. Which of those two choices do you think is better?
And what about those OEM filters made by Fram? OEM doesn't always signify the best quality when it comes to oil filters, it's usually the lowest bidder.
I agree with Patman. Buying an OEM oil filter can be a gamble, you never know what you are getting. The best thing to do is to buy a couple and cut them open, see for yourself. Keep looking in this section, there is alot of discussion concerning oil filters. -Joe
Thanks for the reply guys.
Ken or others, If each mfg. takes a filter and reproduces it with their own improvemnets, wouldn't they take into account flow requirements from the original. I use a Mobil M1-601 on my Power Stroke Diesel. It says on the box that it meets the requirements and all auto mfgs, all new car warrantys remain in effect using this product. (not a direct quote) Could we not ASSUME that this filter is more than adequate for its application? Thanks for your time and all the great info, Larry
Ken or others, If each mfg. takes a filter and reproduces it with their own improvemnets, wouldn't they take into account flow requirements from the original. I use a Mobil M1-601 on my Power Stroke Diesel. It says on the box that it meets the requirements and all auto mfgs, all new car warrantys remain in effect using this product. (not a direct quote) Could we not ASSUME that this filter is more than adequate for its application? Thanks for your time and all the great info, Larry
I do not agree with Malibu. I'll use a quality aftermarket filter (Baldwin/Hastings, WIX/NAPA-Gold, Donaldson, Purolator, Mobil 1, Bosch, LuberFiner, Fleetguard, etc.) or an OEM filter with confidence that I'm protecting my engine.
Ken
Ken
i dont either...but its ur opinon but fact in my opinion alot of things are better than oem...some arent...honda oem filters are frams LOL so basically thats badd....i use premium filters as well..u got to remember the car companies try and find ways to profit...one is taking frams and putting it on their oil filter.
i use bosch right now, i like it...
i use bosch right now, i like it...
i have a sock shoved in a metal pipe for my filter.
i can filter down to the 1mm size!
i can filter down to the 1mm size!
- Status
