Originally Posted By: linksep
Guys, get over it! You are reminding me why I quit coming here!
Not all miles are equal to all other miles. I figured I was driving nearly the easiest miles possible so I could go 2 OCI per FCI on a top-shelf-ultimate-premium filter (and only stretching the FCI by a measly 5k miles over the box recommendation). Also as mentioned by someone else, I would assume the media (totally plugged) should be able to withstand Delta P at 0 degrees F oil temp and engine redline with a functional in-spec bypass system, a far harsher condition than my engine/oil/filter was ever exposed to)... I don't think that's too much to ask, especially with that fine wire mesh backer.
I think it was a QC defect on Fram's part but we'll never know because:
1) In this or another thread someone sent a torn filter back to Fram that "couldn't be tested because of damage" which would be the same in this case.
2) I tore a chunk of filter media off to shine a flashlight through it (intentional and excessive damage to filter media?) The media was not PLUGGED, I could see light through some areas, but it was less light than I expected to see. In any event I would expect the bypass to relieve enough pressure/flow that the media wouldn't tear.
3) The filter is gone, never to be seen again.
I put a FU right back in it's place because that's what I had on hand and I'm not sweating. I've used several FU filters in this engine (on 8K and 10K FCI) and never noticed tearing before.
Re-stating what I think is your best point: The failure mode for over-loading the filter and causing high differential pressure (e.g. from over 15K miles or just plain sludge) should only be the bypass opening -- Not structural failure of the media.
MRT