Oil filter conversion sucks!

[Daves55Sedan]

Not sure what the big round gasket is like nowadays (the one that goes between adaptor plate and engine block). But back in the '80's I was still using the Cannister and P-48 oil filter element and the gasket that came with the Purolator filter element was a thick pliable rubber.
For ease of installation, I used to dab my finger in a can of axle grease and smear the axle grease on one side of the gasket and stick the gasket in the engine block recess to make it stick there while I put the assembled cannister on. Pressing the cannister onto the gasket with my hand while using other hand to tighten the center tube bolt.
Used same procedure to install gasket under the adaptor plate when switched to spin-on filter. Never had a leak or mis-alignment for either intallation. But if your adaptor plate is too thin it could become distorted by tightening too much.
ALSO, need to take a look at the diameter of gasket on the spin-on filters, they are NOT all the same. The MOTORCRAFT FL-1A spin-on filter matches the adaptor plate surface the best.

 

[JimNNN]

ALSO, need to take a look at the diameter of gasket on the spin-on filters, they are NOT all the same. The MOTORCRAFT FL-1A spin-on filter matches the adaptor plate surface the best.

Yes, I just changed the oil in my '54 today. My adapter uses the Motorcraft FL-1A, and I've had no evidence of leakage from the filter, either the one that I took off or the one I put on today. Per standard procedure, put a light film of new oil on the filter gasket and I get filter on tight without overtightening.

 

[Daves55Sedan]

Per standard procedure, put a light film of new oil on the filter gasket and I get filter on tight without overtightening.

Agreed, and I would add that you should ONLY hand tighten the spin-on filter. DO NOT use the filter wrench to tighten the filter. Doing so may further distort the cheap, thin, chinese made adaptor plate and permanently make it unsuitable for trouble-free operation.

 

[KULTULZ]

ATTACHED is some info I forgot I had (found doing some house cleaning) -

Here is a better description and photos of straightening the plate -

http://www.y-blocksforever.com/tech/html/oil_filter.html

*****************************************************

 

[1930artdeco]

Finally took my filter off to check it out and this is what I found. It is older so I am hoping is is good steel. If not then I am going back to the canister-assuming I can find one.

Mike

 

[KULTULZ]

I would hate to see what is behind that plate. Did you ever decide exactly what you are going to do with regard to actually firing it?

 

[1930artdeco]

I have no idea how to even get it off to change the gasket. Just dropped the heads off with Tim the Y block guy, so in another month they will be done. Probably do a ring job and maybe the cam, put her together and fire her up after I stuff her in the car next spring.

 

[paul2748]

I have just the canister if you decide to go that route. No other parts that go with it.

Finally took my filter off to check it out and this is what I found. It is older so I am hoping is is good steel. If not then I am going back to the canister-assuming I can find one.

Mike

 

[dmsfrr]

I have no idea how to even get it off to change the gasket. ...

To remove the plate and clean out the sludge behind it you'll need a 1 & 1/4 inch thin-wall 6 point socket. That will give you a good chance of it fitting into the recess in the plate and still grip the center bolt.
.

 

[KULTULZ]

I have no idea how to even get it off to change the gasket. Just dropped the heads off with Tim the Y block guy, so in another month they will be done. Probably do a ring job and maybe the cam, put her together and fire her up after I stuff her in the car next spring.

!!! IMO !!!​

If the heads went to machine, you should seriously consider taking the short and having it put on the forensics table, mic'd and hot tanked (if that is still available in your area).

If all that road crud that you show @ the filter boss is from the crank-case breather, the inside isn't going to look much better.

When you put her back together, check out BEST GASKETS as they are quality.

 

[dmsfrr]

... If the heads went to machine, you should seriously consider taking the short and having it put on the forensics table, mic'd and hot tanked (if that is still available in your area).
...

1930artdeco,
Times 2
The water jackets in the block may need cleaning, in addition to the other work.
Example photos...