Possibly. Let's doubt everything in the world, except that filter that's on it, right?

At least double.

I know '96 was an oddball year but...…………………...

Not oddball in the oil filter department.

I've been running nothing but the 51515 for many years, now. It works fine on my XJs, WJ, and 351 Ford.

Nice to have one filter fit half my fleet. I've even considered changing my Chevy 6.2 over to use it. One of these days I might get around to comparing the flow specs.....

I'll get a picture of the old filter on the engine to show how little room there is for a wider filter. I did try putting on the 51515 but there is not much accommodation for it. The filter gaskets are both very similar in width but again the extra width that goes past the gasket on the 51515 is enough that is hits the block/oil pan.

hard to get a good picture but you get the point

For sure. Actually in all the years I've had mine I've only run into one instance where a part specified for a '96 didn't fit mine. It was a sensor.

I just checked mine as best I could (raining) but I can slip all four fingers around the filter between the it and the block/oil pan.

Would you happen to know if the oil filter adapter has been off?

Wix is among the top ratings every place I've read about oil filters. I'm surprised they are this inexpensive. I need to stop shopping for filters at Walmart.

I highly doubt it but I have no idea. I've owned it over 2 years and both previous owners were the "let it leak" type lol

If your not familiar with how the adapter mounts to the engine there's a dowel pin on the block that fits in to a recess on the adapter. It keeps the adapter in it's correct position. I'm wondering if the dowel is missing or broken off or missed the recess. If so the adapter could move down as it's tightened and give you the filter clearance issue. Just a thought.

Could be. Next oil change I'm gonna change the adapter seals so I can inspect then.

Just did mine a few weeks back. Not too bad a job at all.

LOL.... nothing like beating a dead horse.