We are in the 21st century but my 2006 Malibu still has the old style element-type oil filter. To change the filter, I have to unscrew the top cover. After a few oil change, the o-ring started to leak. Has someone out there invented an adapter or created a system to change it to a modern throw-away-type oil filter system?
Sorry, it has the “NEW” element style filter. This is now the ‘in’ thing, Toyota’s doing it too. Don’t know about any adapter. ps-can I conclude you were around for the element’s first appearance;)?
Everything old is new again. Early 20th century all filters were element type amd headlights had permanent reflectors with small replaceable bulbs. Then all filters went to disposable “canister” type and all bulbs went to sealed-beam. Now all headlights have permanent reflectors and small replaceable bulbs and oil filters are going back to replaceable elements.
The 1989 Buick 2.5 liter engine had a element type oil filter that was accessed through the bottom of the oil pan. The replacement element did not come with a spare O-ring for the cover. If that cover did not seal, the O-ring had to obtained from a part store. However, with the many times I changed that filter, I never had a problem with the O-ring leaking. So check with your auto parts store because they may have one on the shelf.
The reason for going with the separate element may be to reduce the hazardous waste of canister oil filters going to trash disposal. Usually the canister filters can be disposed of at the same site where used engine oil is disposed. However, a lot of DIYs skip that step in the oil change procedure.
IMHO
What filters are you using
Wifes Lexus has the same type of filter. And every filter I’ve bought so far (OEM, Wix, Fram)…All have a set of new o-rights.
So much lees material waste I’m glad my hybrid Escape has one and wish my old Explorer did. Just renew the o-ring once in a while and be glad you’re being enviro-friendly with this “new” oil filter.
What’s next, tube-type tires, optional heaters, AM only radios, or no cup-holders?
Don’t tell me 8-track tape players are coming back. I got rid of mine!
The new element type filters use fewer natural resources than the cannister type filters.
I suggest that you remove the “O” ring, wipe it off and coat it with engine oil or petroleum jelly before reusing. Petroleum jelly in the case of my 1981 motorcycle, helps to retain the “O” ring in place while installing the filter housing cover.
up until the 60s, element-type were still in used. The new throw-away filter actually are element-type but enclosed within a metal case. It has the anti-drain valve & o-ring which the element-type doesn’t have (?).
There are two available. One has the o-ring & the other none.
The o-ring already have (saturated) engine oil. I don’t think it needs an oil coating. But it’s rubber & over time, from wear & tear I guess, it will leak. I prefer the throw-away filter since it’s easier to install & dispose. The only difference is the latter has a metal case enclosing the element, instead of just the element by itself.
The problem with the canister is that there is oil still caught behind the element that gets to the enviornment unless the DIYer drains that oil out or disposes of the canister at a authorized disposal facility.
True. But the element also still has oil on it too. Both should be disposed of properly though. The canister is easier to install & dispose. For the element type, I still have to wipe/clean inside the housing & make sure most of the old oil are suck out. Since the old oil is not drained out of the engine like a canister equipped car, only a small fraction of the old oil are actually removed.