Spin-oil filter, which filters?

[steveg]

I see the K&N HP2004 I've been using sells for $15.99 at my local Oreilley chain auto parts store - compared to $5.81 for the master pack Wix. That's $10 for the hex nut on the end (which I found unusable). The filters appear to be nearly identical inside in the comparisons.

 

[jimmyr]

I have switch to the K&N on my 100/4, and it seems to provide slightly higher oil pressure than the Fram. Just an observation.

 

[Bob_Spidell]

Oil filters aren't supposed to be torqued to 200 ft-lbs; some say to 'tighten 1.5 turns after gasket makes contact' or similar. I tighten mine 'wrist tight;' and they come off by hand as well (if they don't, you've over-tightened). I also use Dow silicone #4 on the gasket, because that was recommended for aircraft oil filters (but I'll use clean engine oil in a pinch).

 

[steveg]

Just checked - my K&N I'm about to install has a graphic that says "+3/4" for tightening. I usually mark my filters with the date installed and 1 2 3 4 around the periphery. 3/4 of a turn is about all they take before being too tight to turn any more by hand. I always have to use an oil filter wrench to get them off.

FWIW K&N lists the threads for the 2004 as 3/4-16. Pretty much any filter with those threads will work.

PS - here it is installed with my extra sandwich plate for the [semi-useless] oil temp gauge. Is this a good choice for the BJ8 clearance-wise?

 

[tahoe healey]

I use to use the 2004 for clearance until someone on a forum pointed out the smaller filtering surface would have less ability than the 2009. As I change the filter every year (3000 to4000 miles) this is probably a moot point.

 

[Bob_Spidell]

I just want to mention, I have nothing against K&N. In fact, I have their air filters on both my Healeys and my '96 Ranger. The OP wanted to know what others are using and I think the 12-pack of Wixes is a good deal--NFI--since I use them on both my Healeys. I seriously doubt the K&N filters are worth the premium, but can't prove it. The fact that Wix states 'no warranty' on their race-only filters is prudent; else every racer who blows an engine would want a new one from Wix.