MEL, Let's talk about oil filters.......

[gasman]

"P.S. I have run my Lycoming 1000 hrs using an automotive oil filter and we all know that we can't do that!
__________________
Mel Asberry..DAR
A&P/EAA Tech Counselor/Flight Advisor
Specializing in Amateur-Built and Light-Sport Aircraft
Dallas area
RV-6 Flying since 1993"

It sure would be nice to just go get a NAPA GOLD FILTER on Sunday when you need it.

So what is SO SPECIAL about an aircraft oil filter? ..............

[guccidude1]

I have a O-360-A4K(converted to a -A4M) which has a Casper Labs oil filter adapter installed. The guys at Casper Labs recommended I use the K&N 1002 filter because it is built for K&N by Champion Aircraft Filter, with no changes in materials except the K&N label. I bought a 12 pack case on Ebay for $8 each plus shipping. Dan.

[RV6_flyer]

Gasman:

What Champion number filter is recommended for your engine / adapter?
What is the replacement NAPA part number are you using?

I have been using Kelly filters as they are a few bucks cheaper than Champion. I have friends that use Tempest filters as they are a few bucks cheaper than Kelly.

I remember seeing a photo of an automotive filter that was used on an aircraft that exploded. The auto filter could not handle the pressure during start-up in cold weather.

[n5lp]

Originally Posted by RV6_flyer

...I remember seeing a photo of an automotive filter that was used on an aircraft that exploded. The auto filter could not handle the pressure during start-up in cold weather.

The same happened to a friend of mine with a C-85 on a Dragonfly.

[Mel]

I'm not recommending anything!

[rocketbob]

I use the Napa Gold 1068. It will bypass at full flow between 8-11psi. If the bypass valve is operating properly, there's virtually no possibility of cold oil causing the filter to fail.

I'd have to go back and look in my logs, but I'm guessing I've been using this type of filter in the RV for about 600 hours.

[Webb]

I know everyone would like to save a buck or two but why try to skimp here on something that most people change 2-3 times a year?

You've got a machine worth more than your and your wife's car, an engine that cost 25 grand, your life is at stake if failure occurs.

20 bucks a year.......

Why?

[gasman]

Originally Posted by Mel

I'm not recommending anything!

Mel, All I wanted to know is.... what is SO SPECIAL about an aircraft oil filter? ..............

[lostpilot28]

Originally Posted by Webb

I know everyone would like to save a buck or two but why try to skimp here on something that most people change 2-3 times a year?

You've got a machine worth more than your and your wife's car, an engine that cost 25 grand, your life is at stake if failure occurs.

20 bucks a year.......

Why?

Why? Well, if all we're saving a few bucks on were ONLY the oil filter, I'd agree with you. But I've heard your same question said on so many other things you have to look at the grand total. Auto fuel vs. Avgas, 406 Mhz ELT vs. 121.5 Mhz ELT, Hooker vs. Crow harnesses, etc, etc. Why not use something that's equivelent in performance that's less expensive?

That being said, I have no idea if an auto filter would work (I'm using the Kelly Aerospace filter). But, if someone could provide adequate evidence that they're the same with no risk, I would switch.

P.S. - 20 bucks x 3 times a year is $60, not $20.

[Webb]

Sonny

An auto filter is 6 bucks. An aircraft filter is about 16 bucks. Twice a year times 10 bucks is 20. 30 bucks for 3 changes. I don't know anyone that would pay 26 bucks for an oil filter if they could help it.

Point taken about savings the nickels and dimes. As with saving $$, do it prudently and most likely you'll save more in the long run.

All this aside.....Is there really a difference?