Will a 3980 filter fit an auto-equipped Cavalier?

[addyguy]

I know that the 3980 filter is a longer version of the 3387 filter that is usually put on the 2.2 OHV engine in the Chevrolet Cavalier. I also know that the filter area is tight on these engines, depending on how they are equipped -with a manual trans, there is plenty of room but with an auto, it gets tight.

Anyone successfully got a 3980 onto a 2000-2002 Cavalier with an automatic transmission? I'm just wondering if the filter will actually fit lengthwise into the area availiable....

 

[Ironduke4]

I have a 1995 cavalier with the 2.2L engine and auto trans. It specs a 3387 oil filter but i always use the longer 3980 filters there is enough room for the 3980. If the 3980 fits my 1995 cavalier then i would think it should fit a 2000-2002 cavalier.

 

[Jim74]

I always use a 3980 on my 2002. It has an automatic trans, there is plenty of room.

 

[Jim 5]

I believe the 3980 is spec'd for among other things 4x4 gm's with small block v8's. These engines have an engine mounted pressure relief valve and therefore this filter has none.

As such, make sure the engine you are fitting this to also has an in-block pressure relief valve as well, otherwise you'll have none.

 

[beanoil]

3980= AC PF52
3387= AC PF47
Same thread, diameter, and pressure specs. 3980 is longer, and in SOME brands, more media inside. I did find one brand (I do not remember right now- would have to review notes) that was the same filter media inside, just a longer can, and a spacer at the top of the filter, so you may want to cut open a filter and verify the quantity of media present. If the length fits, use with confidence. I think you will find the ST3980 is slightly shorter than a PF52. You may have room for it, but not the AC offering.

 

[dwendt44]

"...so you may want to cut open a filter and verify the quantity of media present."

Couldn't you just check by looking down the center tube?
Or maybe check media height/depth with a pencil?