Correct replacement for Fram C181-A?
- Thread starter Ziggster
- Start date
RalphG
Well-known member
That filter in your photo is like the one I have on the 49 Mercury truck. Taller than the cars.
No customer service at RockAuto, so explained what the issue was (on-line return), and received a store credit. Interestingly, the C4P filter is no longer listed at all, and there is no stk available of the C4 filter. I checked multiple years (45-52) and various models, and all list the C4 amongst others. For example, they list the Wix 51006 (Napa 1006), and a search of that shows this info for the gasket.
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So clearly, my gasket is about 1/8" smaller in dia than either that provided with the Fram C4P filter or the Wix 51006 filter. In some of the filter pics from RockAuto, I could see that some filters include multiple gaskets. I wonder if it is is for this reason. My filter housing cannot be that unique.
Yep, it fits the center tube snugly, and may require a small shim, but not sure how much pressure there should be on the spring because as is, there is no pressure when the top cover is tightened all the way down. Old gasket should be fine, but I will still look for the correct filter/gasket tomorrow when I head back into town. Never thought finding the correct filter would be this much work. Seems like same issue looking for the correct wide belt. Oy vey....
Great. I'll order one tomorrow from either Napa or CarQuest.
Aarongriffey
Well-known member
In the first place, you NEVER use a Fram oil filter. Never!
They are made cheaply, do not filter the oil good enough.
Google Fram oil filters on the internet. There are sites that show how poorly made they are.
I have seen signs in dealer service departments warning customers to not use Fram oil filters in their cars.
They are made cheaply, do not filter the oil good enough.
Google Fram oil filters on the internet. There are sites that show how poorly made they are.
I have seen signs in dealer service departments warning customers to not use Fram oil filters in their cars.
Picked up a new filter from CarQuest, was expecting a Wix, but got their brand (P/N 85006). It's made in the USA as is the Fram, but it has an all aluminum pre-filter screen vs the paper screen on the Fram. It also has raised embossed sections on each each of the filter which I think is better, especially at the top since the spring should have something solid to rest upon vs the rubber grommet on the Fram filter. Also, the actual body is slightly longer (4 13/16" vs 4.5"). It came with two gaskets, both being larger than mine, but surprisingly, the smaller of the two actually fit nicely into my top cover. Only thing I'm rather concerned about with the CarQuest filter are the open seems where the two ends pieces meet the pre-filter screen. I'm guessing that the ends of the filter element are sealed with some type of glue/sealant and do not rely on the mechanical joint for sealing.
