'OK, let the trash talking begin'.Not sure what that's supposed mean. Would posting a difference of opinion or different take be trash talking.
As for the topic'd HM filter, based on previous reports and posts the gel basket additive is based on controlling TAN which would be PH balance mentioned. First I've read of the seal conditioner angle and there's no mention of it on the website specific HM information.
And I see the HM promotion mentioned most with comparative reference to diesel trucking which normally do extended ocis. As noted, the HM is otherwise an orange can recommended to ~5k miles. So it's use seems to be somewhat incongruous and limited 'to me'.
If seals and minor leakage is a consideration, 'my advice' would be to use an HM oil like MaxLife or others and let oil companies pick the additives which is their primary business. Then choose the filter of your choice to match the oci/fci. If it's an orange can, you will be saving yourself the $2-2.50 HM price premium.
There was once another filter made to take advantage of a trend too, but that's another topic and could be considered trash talking.
So attempted to keep it factual, on topic, and stay classy.
