Thanks for the info and data. I think its funny how people go back and forth on the forums because they knew someone whos engine blew because of a "bad filter". Sure, some filters are better than others, but you backed it up with some facts, thank you!
I'm certainly not the all things filter expert but in my opinion, if you're trying to get 20,000 mi out of it you better go 30 microns, if you're just trying to get 5,000 mi out of it I would go less than 30 microns.
@@Toys4Life Amsoil oil filters are guaranteed for 15,000 miles severe service and 25,000 miles normal service when used with Amsoil oils. I’m thinking most are severe service unless you are driving hundreds of highway miles every day.
I always use WIX in all the cars I drive and the race motor I build as well. I have used all the filters on the list before and cut them all open other than the high end Frams. once I opened the regular Fram and saw the less than impressive filter media and down right scary cardboard end plug I was so turned off I never looked at the brand again but I will have to buy one give it a shot try and cut it like I always do to get a good opinion.
I used Fram oil filters on my first car. Never had a problem with them whatsoever. I have nicer vehicles now, including my C5, I typically use Wix, but I might have to look into changing filters after watching.
I have learned that so much of what I hear is anecdotal commentary. Rarely any scientific data leading to factual objective evidence. Owned seven Corvettes over my past 50 years and always used AC Delco oil filters. Each of my Corvettes were street driven and had routine oil changes done according to manufacturer's recommendations. I cannot speak to off-road or racing applications. Once again thank you for another excellent Corvette video that reinforces my opinion that you are the best C5 resouce on YT.
I agree with the Fram Ultra Synthetic, but I still prefer using OEM AC Delco on my C5. I will however consider the Fram on my next oil change. Great post sir!
Fair enough for me sir. I have no opinion on the AC Delco other than it turns me off when I can't find data. It may be there somewhere, but I could not find it.
Have been using Napa gold filters for a few years without issues, although I’m not 100% sure this filter follows the iso 4548-12 specs, I’m thinking of trying one of your top 5 because I like the specs and the added protection that provides. Thank you!
Wix actually makes NAPA Gold filters in Gastonia, NC. They are identical in construction and are made in the same line. Their part numbers are the same except for an additional digit on one or the other. I worked for NAPA for years.
Filtering is an important measurable. Still, flow and durability are also important. For example, how long can a filter flow at a high rate before flow degrades, sending a higher amount through the bypass valve? For a performance car the latter should be a key factor. This video compares flow resistance, the other side of the coin. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ChkwzU-nH3c.html
And the flow will decrease as the media pores collect debris. Thus another reason for performance engines that see high rpms (high oil pressure/flow) to keep the change intervals lower than grandmas minivan. Good video - thanks for the link!
These all look great, if you live in the US. As I live in the UK I've always stuck with AC Delco P46E. I'd like to know what your thoughts are on this? Graham
I have used Fram oil filters for 65 years and have never had a failure due to oil filter issues. So, it goes back to this. The best product is the one "you" use and have had success with. It's Fram forever for me.
I would say for a stock motor the fram might be fine, but if its supercharged, I would spend the xtra money on something better just my opinion. I use purilator Boss.
Interesting. I don’t have a C5 or a C6 yet. I have a 2002 Lexus ES300 and I’ve been using WIXX extended performance for full synthetic oil 51348XP filter mostly because my cousin told me WIXX is the best. Mmm. Now after watching this looks like Fram will be my go too
I agree and will look at that fram. For now I use WIX or Pure-o-lator. I DO have a fram oil filter failure experience to share. 1989 and my friend had a malibu w/a 327 and high pressure oil pump. He bought a standard fram and on the first drive it blew out around 4000rpms. He got it shut down but it spun a rod bearing which he had to fix. His fault for trying to be cheap and not researching burst pressures. Other than that one event in 50yrs of hot rodding and tons of oil changes using frams I've never had a bad experience.
Interesting! I can't imagine how much pressure it would take to crack open a non-defective canister from any of the companies. I tried to find pics or vids of blown up oil cans but was unable.
@@Toys4Life My account is second hand but its true. He built a 327 (on a budget), bought a cheap fram at WM, and it blew on the very first time he revved it. That was 89 and I have no details of the PSI or what part number of filter he had. I just know it happened and the result was a spun rod bearing. Ever since he's stayed away from fram. IMO... he just didn't do his homework for burst strength.
Darn, I just purchased a 5 pack of OEM oil filters which will last me 2.5 years being I only drive ~2,500 miles a year! Kick in the shins, I was at the store looking at the Ultra Synthetic Fram filter too! If all goes as planed, I'll have a 2003 C5 one day and I will be Very prepared with your channel! Greatly appreciated!
We are talking under $10 I am sure you can make a sacrifice and get a couple less Starbucks coffees and get the filter you think will have a better chance of keeping your engine worth thousands of dollars alive.. Look at it as cheap insurance, I always use WIX in all the cars I drive and the race motor I build as well. I have used all the filters on the list before and cut them all open other than the high end Frams. once I opened the regular Fram and saw the less than impressive filter media and down right scary cardboard end plug I was so turned off I never looked at the brand again but I will have to buy one give it a shot try and cut it like I always do to get a good opinion.
Why is Mobile One oil in a mobile one filter. Don't need to cut oil filters in half to see what's inside. I pulled a dipstick and see what the oil looks like. Have a nice day!
I’ve been using K&N oil filter for all my cars including my Z06 corvette for many years until I saw you posted on RU-vid. It’s confusing do i using the wrong product for my corvette….
I''ve been researching a bit, from what I have seen, the Wix is 99% efficient at 23 micron per the ISO 454812, with the smallest micron rating at 21, but that percentage is likely closer to 95% like you stated. Not the best, not the worst. Another thing I wonder, is if higher filtering filters have more restricted flow, potentially meaning the oil goes through the bypass valve in the filter more frequently? It's hard to say. If the Wix had a much higher flow rate of oil at 99% 23 micron vs a restricted flow 20 micron 99% oil filter with some being bypassed, I would probably stick with the Wix.
I kind of alluded to it in the video that IMO, if you were going for 15 to 20,000 mile oil changes then by all means go with something like the wix but most Corvette guys change it every 2, 3, 4,000 mi and in that case fram ultra synthetic baby!
@@Toys4Life I think I might go with the Fram Ultra S filter as well for my C5. That or the Amsoil, as I'm a member and run their oil anyway. I have 4 Wix filters for my Altima and Sierra yet, so I might as well use em! As a fellow Minnesotan, hope your C5 is staying nice and warm with the crappy weather coming 👍
I have used Fram in the past on my 06 2500 HD 6.0 when Walmart was out of Mobile 1. I just think they got a bad reputation sometime back in the early to mid 80’s when car manufactures engines weren’t worth a crap and it still seems to get around to avoid the orange filter. But with those kinds of production numbers the rumor hasn’t hurt Fram one bit. I guess I’ll give it a shot on my next oil change coming up in a few weeks.
The change oil soon light came on my c5 information center but It's been just under 3k miles since I had the oil changed. That seems like low mileage. Anyway I'm going to try this filter and check out the link you provided for type of oil.
@@Toys4Life It's been 15 months I think and the driving varies but I would say short trips for the most part. Even the freeway driving can be stop and go and I hate to say it but I do drive fast and exceed the speed limit when I see the opportunity and it's safe to do so. But I suspect I have a very slow oil leak because I have had to add a quart since that oil change. I may as well include that information here. I used your two Amazon links and made those two purchases for the filter and the 5 quarts of oil.
Good video. Love to learn about my C5. Too old to do it myself so Chevrolet dealer handles my oil and filter changes. Assuming that they use Delco filters. Change occurs once a year with about 1500-2000 miles on full synthetic. Back in the day when I did changes myself I often used Fram.
I am curious how much oil is bypassed with warm clean oil in LS engines that are maintained properly. I would think minimal - but don't have any reference to a legit test - do you? Link if you do, I would love to see it! PS I like most of Project Farm vids too!
@@Toys4Life from what I understand, the bypass valve is on a spring and will open if more than 15-20 psi oil pressure. So when cold, dirty or revving hard, oil pressure is sufficiently high to open the bypass. At normal operating speeds, most oil is filtered but the limit is probably the canister itself, you don’t want to blow open the canister. My old BMW used a filter cartridge but the filter housing was extremely strong and I would suspect it allows higher oil pressure before bypassing. What I will need to check is if the oil filter spin on canister is stronger, then it should have a higher bypass pressure. I will have to check specs on the filters but it may also be a reason why some oil filters are better than others. I suspect very much that a cheap farm bypasses much more oil in order to keep the filter from blowing apart. Fram! Not Farm! Damn Siri!
Well thought out discussion! I agree that those of us who maintain their cars really have little to worry about in this area with any of the industry leaders. Engine Masters did an oil filter shoot out episode where Wix did really well in terms of HP. Quite possibly Wix takes a hit for efficiency due to increased flow?
First of all I love your videos. I need to know if I install my ebcm myself on my 2000 corvette because mine has gone bad after finding one, do I need any special tools to get it working properly. Can’t seem to find any information about it. I no I’m off topic but I feel you can answer this question. Thanks.. Mark G.
Thanks for the kind words! I am quite sure the 01 and newer are plug and play. I am not certain for the 97-00 units - but if I had to guess I would say yes - as long as you have the same unit as you are replacing (same options). The 97 -00 are not cheap so make sure you buy from a reputable source!
Great looking spoiler and no holes to drill. I want it too!!! Can it be painted? My C5 is pewter silver, i'd like to paint it the same color. Thanks and congrats for your beast! 👍
I've been using either the Fram tough guard or the top of the line ultra for over 20 years and never had a issue with any of my vehicles. A few of them I've put well over 200k miles on them and no issues.
Getting ready to change oil + filter on my 2003 C5. Wondering what is best way to jack up for access? Use 1 puck on 1 side OK? or better to lift via aluminum frame neat front of engine or by wheel A frame pivots. And where best to place jack stand(s). I assume lift, drain + remove filter, set car back down to drain better, lift, change filter/insert+tighten drain plug, set car down, do oil re-fill and check oil level? Any other tips not in your oil + filter videos? Is there a jacking advice video???
I got long ramps Pull on top of them not problem, plenty room to work underneath C5 . Good luck, You can build a set using 2x6 Don’t forget choke the wheels 😊
Am I the only on this channel using the Mobil One synthetic oil filter? I assumed it would go well with the oil called out by Chevrolet...5W-30 Mobil One pure synthetic. Am I missing something? Is there a reason to avoid the Mobil One filter? That's the only filter my 2003 C5 has ever seen. I know it is more expensive at $12 each. I see it as cheap insurance. My friend used to take his Toyota Supra (back in the 90's) to one of those quick change places and they put a really cheap filter on his car. One morning the filter split when he started his car. The inrush of thick cold oil was too much for the cheap filter.
I've always used the Mobil 1 M107A filter and had good results/blackstone tests. My 02 C5Z sees between 500 and 3k miles a season though, so it probably really doesn't matter!
should make a best all fluids video, mainly because when people buy a car they flush all the fluids and i plan to get a c5z in the near future and plan to flush everything
I tried to look into the ACDelco filters, but finding detailed information on them was difficult. I'm pretty sure they don't make their own, but I could be wrong.
Not much mention of Fleetguard or Baldwin. As I understand, Cummins builds the Fleetguard line. Premium quality, held to high standards. How do they compare? My '03 Z06 with Amsoil/Wixo has been a good go to. Thanks.
I understand your goal of filtering out the smallest particles as possible, however I'm coming from a little different angle. I switched to the K&N HP 1007 from an AC Delco and immediately saw several pounds of oil pressure increase so I know there is more flow in my 04 Z06 which should also reduce any sludge build up . Yes I know it may not filter the smallest pf particles as some of the others, but my car is never going to see any off road dusty conditions and it's going to get changed every 3000-3500 miles with fresh mobil 1, so I'll take the increased lubrication over the more restrictive filtering for a high performance engine that is going to be pushed occasionally. But that's just my preference and opinion.
I see your point and it is absolutely valid IMO. Also, the finer filter pressure increases quicker than one with "larger holes" as they catch particles. Since I change mine yearly at usually 4k or less miles - I am not worried about it. Cheers!
@ under 4 bux.....how can you not include ac delco gold pf 46e? oem. for what its worth.....I just put that on my 98 vette....with super tech high mileage 5/30 full synthetic. 30 clams.
I've been showing oil filters for nearly 40 years and have cut hundreds of new filters apart and can tell you that a lot of the originally equipment filters are some of the poorest quality including the ACDelco for our cars, they do however list a premium filter for them and it's a much higher quality filter. I've rent filtering test with fluids and media and Baldwin and wix always do the best job of filtering find micron sized particles without plugging. Many of the others club quickly and just go into bypass. Also wix Baldwin and fleetguard make most everyone else's filters to their individual specifications and most of the time you get what you pay for. My $.02
With the lead in Fram video this was obviously a pro Fram "shootout". The is the first review in many years that's ranked Fram #1. Who knows maybe they've done their homework on this new filter. But if I know Fram, and their bean counter engineering it's just a new release advertisement. For performance and cost I run Pureolator One.
Ha, I have no brand allegiance when it comes to oil filters. I was a Wix guy for years until I did this video. If I was a 500k sub channel, maybe, just maybe Fram would sponsor me. I do have a brand preference for Chevrolet though!
Interesting! What filter part number do they spec - I bet it is the biggest one they make? They must flow a TON of oil and are not worried about any moisture related buildup (stop/start/ warm/ cold cycles vs time).
If you use a GM filter you won't need to worry about a warranty claim. I don't have a dog in the fight. Use a GM filter for your protection if you are under a warranty.
I'm pretty sure all C5s are out of warranty right? Plus they can't mandate that you use their own oil or their own filter. Can't remember the name of the law but it's illegal.
Many years ago I had a VW Beetle that had a highly modified Super Vee race engine from a friend who was the National champ in SuperVee. It was a 1700cc Beetle motor that dynoed at 175+ hp @ 6500 rpms. It was extremely fun to drive. Anyway the point of this story is that back then the most performance oriented filter you could buy was the huge Fram HP-1 race filter. Big filter and heavy even before it had oil in it. I was showing some friends how fast this car was and I nailed it at a traffic light. The next thing was a loud explosion from the rear of the car and then a big puddle of oil under the back. What had happened was that oil pressure bent the end plate away from the filter mount and it drained onto the street. I have never heard anyone with a similar story since then. Needed a new pressue relief spring. BTW, this car in the early '70s was running 14.0 quarters and never lost a street race to a muscle car. You didn't have a choice of filters back then like we have today. I wonder if Fram still makes that filet. They even had an accessory mount that could run two filters together side by side.
I had a bunch of Beetles in the late 80s and that silly filter plate setup always made me wonder. In MN since VW's rusted out I could buy engines much cheaper than rebuilding. 175 out of a modified 1600CC stock later year bug motor (I assume) is no easy feat. Was it supercharged or NA? I still have a soft spot in my heart for the lowly beetle. Baha style they take a severe off road BEATING!
Two race Weber carbs from a Maserati on very tall intake manifolds, so tall you either ran no air filter, just foam socks clamped to the velocity stacks or nothing because you couldn't close the hood.
I spent more time trying to find detailed info about their filters and was turned off by how info seems to be top secret. If you can find it - please provide a link (:-)
For the gas question, are you stopping when it clicks off or do you keep "topping it off" for a while? That is not good for the evap system and can smell. Focus on the gas issue first - we don't want any scorched C5's!
So I just put a K&N filter on mine because I just recognized the brand name and figured it would be good, but I saw that one as the only name brand that showed up when lawsuit was searched. Does K&N make good filters?
I like the purolator filter better and I would be interested in seeing a video of both the fram and the purelator being cut open after the same amount of miles. Also big corporations use media companies to mitigate searches. Just the sheer numbers that you've mentioned there must be some claims. Not to say that you aren't correct. But, there may be more at play than a simple search can find. I appreciate you taking the time to make this video and keep up the good work. Thanks
Thank you! I think the only value in cutting them open is to see if there is an obvious oil filter failure (unlikely) but more importantly - do you see any metal particles from your engine.
@@Toys4Life WoW, why would they do that unless it's considered proprietary somehow, anyway I might give Fram a try, thanks for reply and another great video 👍
Plenty of filter dissections on RU-vid show their lower standards of construction. Personally I’ve seen two rubber gaskets fail and get stuck on the engine side and the only filter I’ve ever get completely stuck on was a fram.
@@Toys4Life are wix failing at an alarming rate? Who is to say the oh so coveted Fram X9000 super dooper plus holds that efficiency passed a few heat cycles?
How about you stop deleting posts you don't agree with. I've commented on why Fram filters are bad with proof and you keep deleting my post. Yeah you're sponsored.
If I was deleting posts, I would delete this one. Respond to this one right now, I'll leave it I just asked that you provide some sort of proof and keep it clean. Also- Fram= a billion dollar corporation, do you seriously think they are going to sponsor me? GET REAL!
@@Toys4Life I think I was responding when you edited. Here is what I said; It actually happened twice. I didn't use vulgar language and gave proof. Cummins had several engine failures in the early 2000s and they were directly tied to the Fram PH3976. Dodge even released a TSB on it. Fram acknowledged this by releasing a 'new and improved' Fram PH3976A. They even had a informational pdf on their website about the new filter. That pdf was quickly replaced with another pdf explaining the Magnuson-Moss Act.... Just search 'cummins fram engine failure'. Inexpensive Fram filters are satisfactory for people who believe that the 3000 mile oil change is necessary. ANY filter will do in that case. AC Delco filters use to be an E core design (SuperTech too). They are just as bad as the inexpensive Fram oil filters. One of the main reasons the inexpensive Fram oil filters are an inferior product is because of the glued cardboard end caps. They really can't go past 3000 miles or sit for any length of time. The one you suggest is a 'decent' filter.
@@gearhead7896 I have personally cut open at least 10 used fram orange filters in the past 5 years and I've never seen any signs of deterioration. Most of them have around 5,000 miles on them. That doesn't mean none of ever failed, it just means the 10 that I've looked at look fine. Not having been sad, I'm sure Fran's probably made close to 1 billion of those orange filters. If they were failing left and right, I think we'd see a lot of litigation don't you?
@@Toys4Life I'm sure they've made way more than that. Not really, people who change their own oil don't have lawyers on retainer. Fram would be smaller if Walmart didn't carry the filters. Maybe even not around. I don't know any counter pro that recommends them ever. Several years ago, Walmart picked up Purolator as a filter supplier and within just a few years gone. I would suspect they wouldn't make their product cheaper to so Walmart could sell them cheaper. Makes me want to buy Purolator anytime I can.
The NAPA Gold is made by Wix. Is it the exact same? I have heard that said, but keep in mind manufacturers make a lot of off brand items for other sellers at those seller’s specs. Wix also makes different quality levels within their own brand, so I’d like to see some proof that the NAPA is the same before I go by heresay.
@@bat5917 all you need to do is a 10 minute Google search and conduct your own research. It's all there, you'll see for yourself that Napa is WIX. As most of NAPA'S parts are STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS. If I can't find AC Delco or Denso parts for my 96, I use NAPA brand only. Have for over 30 years...
Really a no brainier...it comes from the factory with AC Delco...why put more thought into it than necessary.these engines were built and tested using an ac delco filter...
My only beef with ACDelco is it's hard to find filtration specs for their filters. Everything else was much easier to find, which makes me wonder why they don't publish it or it's fairly easy to access.
