Using a larger oil filter? God or bad?

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I was reading on some forums that using a larger oil filter (If it fits) is a good thing to do. The pros are more filtration, more oil capacity. Is this true?
What are the con's?

Andy
 
Depends...its additional oil volume, and slightly more surface area to provide cooling.

Some "large" filters have small elements in them, but in general they are larger, and can hold more gunk.

I do if possible (used the Z9 ford sized filters on my E30- bypass setting was lower than BMW was the only "issue)
 
Bad parts about using a larger oil filter? If it hits anything (protrudes too low where road debris is, hits a component, belt or the radiator, including when the engine moves on its mounts, etc).

Other then that, nothing bad about it. Some will argue there's nothing good, but, I use oversize filters. So long as they're all spec'd the same on bypass pressure and that it can't hurt. Usually costs the same too, so why not.
 
I use PF-52 in place of PF-47 where ever I can. Even with the big filter, I can barely get 4 quarts in my GM.
 
Best cross reference was Gary Allan, he used to recite them off the top of his head.

Go to the purolator site, find the filter for your car, get the thread and gasket dimensions, then search again for those details, and you'll get all the filters that will mount your set-up...note, I said mount, not necessarily fit.

When considering fit, also consider engine mount movement, which can make things whack, where they look clear.
 
Originally Posted By: driver123
I'm interested in trying this, does anyone know what oversize filter would replace fram 3387A or napa 1040 for my 3.1 malibu?

AC Delco PF52, Napa Gold 1036, K&N 2001, Fram 3980's are a few.
 
AC Delco PF-47 is the orginal equipment that Fram 3387A is trying to replace. AC Delco PF-52 is the larger size. Other filters that replace PF-52 include Fram PH3980, Purolator L24011, Wix 51036, Napa Gold 1036, Mobil1 201, many, many others...
 
Originally Posted By: Shannow
Best cross reference was Gary Allan, he used to recite them off the top of his head.


Yep, he had that knack.



I like oversize filters for the extra capacity. In the case of my Jeep, it's about an extra 1/2qt.
 
Cons:
If the filter drains down, it will take longer to fil a large filter canister.
If you do regular oci's what is the need for (possibly) more filter media?

More oil capacity means your oil will take longer to reach optimal temp.
 
Originally Posted By: Garak
The Hastings filter site is another good reference. It will often tell you the upsize model number right on the page that lists the appropriate filter.

Didn't know this. Thanks.
 
The biggest thing overlooked about over sized filters is if you are using it on a car still under warranty and have a problem, you will be on the hook 100%.

If you use a over sized filter that is not cataloged for your application on a new vehicle and it fails, the filter maker has grounds to deny warranty claim.
 
Originally Posted By: expat
More oil capacity means your oil will take longer to reach optimal temp.


IMO, this is a non-issue. My new F150 has an 8qt sump and offers greater oci and more consistant sump temps.

In my Jeep's case, it gives me a bit more oil without having the extra cooler and lines (granted it's only 1/2 qt).

Originally Posted By: boxcartommie22
doesn't a larger filter decrease oil pressure? i know there is an inc in oil pressure when using a smaller filter.


Not in my experience. If your pump is up to snuff, the filter size shouldn't matter as long as both filter's specs are the same.


In the end, I really don't know how much it matters when going from a PH16 to a PH43 size filter - but it makes me feel better dumping in the whole 5 qt jug.
 
I have been using an oversized Fram TG 3600 on my Toyota van for the past few years. My reasoning is that the TG has higher filter efficiency than a stock filter therefore it makes sense to have more total media. The cost is identical for a stock size TG. Also, I occasionally leave the filter on for two oil changes.
 
Originally Posted By: Hootbro
The biggest thing overlooked about over sized filters is if you are using it on a car still under warranty and have a problem, you will be on the hook 100%.

If you use a over sized filter that is not cataloged for your application on a new vehicle and it fails, the filter maker has grounds to deny warranty claim.


This is a possibility, although unlikely.

But the facts are this is a 'feel good' mod. No verifiable improvements of any kind, just may make you feel a bit better for some reason.
 
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