Went to Wally World for some bug removing washer fluid…. So I stopped by the oil filters
What’s this? A Fram with Louvers?
- Thread starter UG_Passat
- Start date
Went to Wally World for some bug removing washer fluid…. So I stopped by the oil filters
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2021
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- 445
I must admit I hate louvers.
I don't like them either, except Baldwin
Fram and Champion Labs have the same parent company now - so not that surprising.
If the louvers are open I guess it doesn't matter - but just one more thing to have to think about.
If the louvers are open I guess it doesn't matter - but just one more thing to have to think about.
The holes are my favorite part of the Fram filters.
4WD
$50 site donor 2025
OMG - both BITOCD gremlins in one filter - have not slept in - uh, 16 hours - good night 
Can’t hardly see louvers; picture too dark
At least one other Fram filter anecdote using louvers has been posted HERE before.
As accurately noted, Fram's FB sister company Champ Labs has been using louvered tubes for a long time.
If pattern follows seems those preferring or only wanting to use filters with tube with holes will have to jump off the Fram train. On the plus side, the louvered orange can does show it has an orange silicone adbv, as advertised.
As accurately noted, Fram's FB sister company Champ Labs has been using louvered tubes for a long time.
If pattern follows seems those preferring or only wanting to use filters with tube with holes will have to jump off the Fram train. On the plus side, the louvered orange can does show it has an orange silicone adbv, as advertised.
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I feel as though there must be a materials or manufacturing advantage to louvered center tubes. Because you know it's not going to be for the benefit of performance if costs is a factor. 
In my mind, if you're able to recycle the slugs from punching circular holes in the center tube, you'd save more metal and lower costs, but what do I know?
In my mind, if you're able to recycle the slugs from punching circular holes in the center tube, you'd save more metal and lower costs, but what do I know?
4WD
$50 site donor 2025
Yeah - the “processing” might be more than the worth of the slugs - and don’t want “hanging chads”I feel as though there must be a materials or manufacturing advantage to louvered center tubes. Because you know it's not going to be for the benefit of performance if costs is a factor.
I have cut plenty - they always look better once opened up …
Louvers are much easier to punch. To make holes you have to punch out the slug (the metal that used to be where the hole is). If the slug doesn't eject correctly it can damage the die or material. Bunch of other technical things that make the die more difficult to make and maintain.I feel as though there must be a materials or manufacturing advantage to louvered center tubes. Because you know it's not going to be for the benefit of performance if costs is a factor.
So yes, louvers are likely cheaper, or easier at least.
That makes sense. I figured there had to be a simple reason like this one.
4WD
$50 site donor 2025
I’m sure it rolls so keeping the metal in motion …
Perfect timing on the answer. I was wondering what the benefit of the louvers over holes was. Thank you.
