Oil filter alternative

[rule762]

Ive been searching for the info about alternative oil filter sizes, but can't find it. What are you guys using in place of the little factory recommended filter? Thanks

['97ventureowner]

Years ago the Fram catalog had a few pages in the back that listed all their oil filters with O.D. and thread size, and other pertinent info. You could then take that info and find a similar filter in a larger size as long as the they shared the same characteristics. I was using alternatives for the PF52 and PH3387A on most of my later model GM engines. I don't know if Fram still prints these tables in their catalogs as I think they were only included in the copies that were used "behind the counter" at the parts stores. I could not find such tables in the newer catalogs that are on display in the automotive section at WalMart. I was told that Fram didn't want that info available to the general public as it could cause problems if the info was used wrong. But it would be worth your while to check the back of oil filter catalogs to see if any other manufacturers include this info. It was great to have that info because I could find the "other size" Fram and cross it over to AC Delco.

[redly1]

I think I read somewhere that the filter for my van (93 Silhouette) and my car (91 Lesabre) is compatible with the larger filter that is spec'd for the 4.3L in the S-10 of the same year. Damn I wish I could remember where I saw that

[auto trainy]

I would not recommend anyone to try any filter the the mfr.does not suggest.I once put the wrong filter on a fairly new car because the dealer wanted a fortune for it,the filter was the same siize but did not flow correctly and kept the idiot light out for about a day then the whole lower end of the engine had to be replaced (crank,mains and rod bearings),luckly it was under warranty.Anyway filters are not that expensive.

[buickmastermind]

I found that the oil filter off a 85 chevy astro, 4.3L(?) v6 works for the 3.8l, as well as the 3.3 and 3.4. I believe it's a pf52. Bigger, so you get better flow and filtration.

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by auto trainy

I would not recommend anyone to try any filter the the mfr.does not suggest.I once put the wrong filter on a fairly new car because the dealer wanted a fortune for it,the filter was the same siize but did not flow correctly and kept the idiot light out for about a day then the whole lower end of the engine had to be replaced (crank,mains and rod bearings),luckly it was under warranty.Anyway filters are not that expensive.

The main reason why some of us go with a different filter is increased oil capacity. I realize that filters are not that expensive, but the ones we do use that are larger sometimes costs more actually. So we are not doing it to save some money. The Fram catalog I was mentioning in my post was very thorough in that it even listed whether or not the specific filter in question had a pressure relief valve in it. when trying to find a compatible filter, Fram instructed us to make sure the other filter had the same specs as the one we were replacing in regards to thread size and PRV (or bypass valve). I have seen numerous cars in the shop over the years that have had a smaller filter installed by other independent garages and quick change oil facilities, either to save money or because they didn't have the correct one in stock. That is dangerous because you end up with a smaller capacity for engine oil. When I worked at the parts store we used to have a Fram filter on the shelf ( PH373??can't remember the number off hand, ) and this sucker was HUGE over a foot in length, but the same diameter as a PH8A. I think it was for a large truck or tractor or a big rig, but we always imagined what it would look like on our vehicles LOL.

[taser1984]

I worked for a while at a quick oil chanage place. I can tell you for a fact that a Pennzoil PZ29 will replace a PZ9A (the 9A is the filter specified for the 3800). The 29 is twice as long. I know that mechanically it will cause no problems. I'm so confident about it that I put one on my mom's car. I don't know if you can get one on a LeSabre though, because the filter mounts more vertically, and clearance might be an issue. Feel free to cross reference to find a different brand.

Be very careful when using different filters from those specified. I have seen plenty of engines lock up because of a filter that "fit" but was too different to work right. Moreover, there is no good reason to use a bigger filter just because you can. The capacity is not really going to increase that much. You won't experience any extended service intervals, you won't get better cooling, and the smaller filter won't get "full" or anything if you change your oil every 3k. Or even every 5k.

[fastTurb]

fram 3980 has anti-drain-back, twice the size - capacity of 3387A.