Over sized filter really any better?

[bigsplash]

I am curious about over sized oil filters, and if there is any benefit for me to consider using one.

The original filter size suggested for my vehicle is a Wix 51085, heigt 3.8", but there is also a Wix 51515, height 5.2" and finally a Wix 51773, a Massey-Ferguson Tractors super duper size, coming in at close to 7", holding a whopping two quarts of oil.

Wix 51085
Wix 51515
Wix 51773

Assuming I could physically fit any one of these three onto my vehicle, is there one that stands out and is better than the other two?

 

[hate2work]

No reason at all to run a larger filter with a 3k OCI.

 

[05ChevyI5]

Larger filter equals more surface area for particulates, but for standard OCI's is there a benefit? Probably not.
Adding a quart of extra oil to the sump? Probably more benefit there if minor fuel dilution is an issue. I'd choose the one that added a 1/2qt more oil if using a longer OCI in that engine and had no clearance issues.

 

[unDummy]

They hold less oil than they claim. Its just a 'comparison' size.

Definitely better if you're on extended drain intervals, have oil temp issues, accidentally run low on oil, or have any oiling system caused gremlins, then go as big as you can fit.

add 51714 to the list

 

[scurvy]

Originally Posted By: hate2work

No reason at all to run a larger filter with a 3k OCI.


Unless the larger one is cheaper... in which case you could probably leave it on for three OCIs!

 

[Jeffs2006EvoIX]

One benefit of using a larger filter is its oil capicity. In the racing world, we try to use a decent sized filter to hold as much oil as possible. In a DD car it may not mean much, but its a reason to why some folks run a larger filter. Filtration itself I am sure is nil difference if any.

 

[JHZR2]

wow, a 7" filter?

Id want to cut that baby open and check it out. Same surface area as the others? More? Less?!? If nothing else it could be a glorified removable sump which isnt a bad thing. I would be very critical of oil pressure, etc when using an oddball filter, but if you could use a giant like that, Id go for it.

 

[bigsplash]

Originally Posted By: scurvy
Originally Posted By: hate2work

No reason at all to run a larger filter with a 3k OCI.


Unless the larger one is cheaper... in which case you could probably leave it on for three OCIs!


Interesting thought, I also use a fumoto quick drain oil valve, leaving the oil filter on a couple of times, would really speed up the oil change. =)

 

[The_Jeff]

If you had a huge filter you'd probably want to drain the quart of oil stuck in it if you're going to reuse it.

The 51515 is a motorcraft FL1a which is about as universal a filter you'll ever find... and a great one for its price at walmart or wherever. I ran one on my dakota 2.5; it was a monster there.

When you see beta ratios and other tests published it is usually on this exact model filter.

Don't fumotos slow down drains via their smallish internal diameter? I know you're 90% kidding...

 

[jrenkas]

He may have to take a skid plate off to get at the filter . . . Just a thought.

 

[bigsplash]

Originally Posted By: eljefino
If you had a huge filter you'd probably want to drain the quart of oil stuck in it if you're going to reuse it.

The 51515 is a motorcraft FL1a which is about as universal a filter you'll ever find... and a great one for its price at walmart or wherever. I ran one on my dakota 2.5; it was a monster there.

When you see beta ratios and other tests published it is usually on this exact model filter.

Don't fumotos slow down drains via their smallish internal diameter? I know you're 90% kidding...


I think the fumoto valve may slow the drain down theoretically, but in real world numbers it is negligible as long as the oil is hot.

About the changing oil filters every other time, yes that was tongue in cheek

 

[dparm]

In my opinion you should not change the size as this will affect oil pressure.

 

[Chris142]

You don't want the 51773.

Nominal Micron Rating: 32

 

[mongo161]

If you had a huge filter you'd probably want to drain the quart of oil stuck in it if you're going to reuse it.

IMO...If you try to remove the filter on the vehicle to drain it of the oil....you risk damaging the seal on the filter which would render the filter useless by not holding the seal on the next installation.

IMO...its better to just leave the filter on, as is, and refill the engine with oil. I've seen leaks many times by people braking the seal on an attached filter and then trying to re-tighten the filter back onto the engine.

 

[Malo83]

Been running a 2qt filter on my 83 Silverado for the last 25 yrs with no problems, and with 210K on the clock she's still my Daily Driver, and yes it's a FRAM

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[dwendt44]

Oversize filters generally equals more filter media, larger capacity for crud as well as oil, and slower moving oil through the filter usually equals better filtration.

As most auto size oil filters are priced the same, bigger is better.
I would be careful with industrial filters though, they may not be up to auto standards. Farm tractors don't turn the rpm's cars do.
May not have the pressure that auto engines have, etc....
My 2¢

 

[kcfx4]

AHHH......bigger is better? i dont think so! but your wife might

 

[daman]

Originally Posted By: dwendt44
Oversize filters generally equals more filter media, larger capacity for crud as well as oil, and slower moving oil through the filter usually equals better filtration.

Correct,,PLUS more oil capacity(longer lasting oil,TBN,additives,etc),cooler oil temps(lager filter can act like a heat sink)

all pluses running a OSF.


@ kcfx4 haha good one!!

 

[kcfx4]

daman, glad you liked it, and i try not to disagree w you

but i cant see how the bigger is better mantlity works? not on this issue, if it were so, there were only be like 4 or 5 filter sizes, i think more things come into play than a few more ounces of oil....a bit more media/etc?

 

[Steve S]

Bigger should be better. Will the better be noticed during the life of ownership? That is the question. I go bigger if I can.