I was wondering if anyone else here has had this problem, but first a few background details. My 91 4.0 had sat for 3 years before I got it, so the oil and filter had to be changed. Since then, I've changed it two more times, used NAPA {Wix} brand filters, and 10W30 oil. This last time I used Hastings LF115 {equivalent in size to PH8A Fram}, and put in 5W40 Rotella Synthetic.

Now the problem I found is that the last 2 filters, when taken off, if you shook them it felt like the element inside was no longer permanently attached to the inside of the casing. Plus, I noticed my oil light going off later after a while {idiot lights are original, aftermarket gauges are being installed soon}, then after the install of a new filter the light goes out immediately.

Anybody else encounter this problem?

 

clogged filter. Previous owner might have added Restore or the engine might just be gunked up.

 

You NEVER want to use fram or equivalent. Fram is crap in our XJ's. Use Wix, Mopar or Napa Gold. And yes it will make a big difference in the way the oil pressure and the idiot function.

 

Like the man above said. Cheap filters are just that - cheap - the hot glue holding the cardboard together will blow apart easily.

 

He said he used Wix and Hastings - both very good filters. He only said the filter was equivalent in size to a Fram PH8A.

 

Hmm I missed that, originally replied on my phone. Does smell like a bad filter though. First things first: Verify your oil pressure with a mechanical gauge.

 

I"d be tempted to saw one of the failed filters open to see what broke, and what it's filtering out.

 

Good idea. Something doesn't sound right here: two quality filters made by two different companies both supposedly going bad in the same way.

 

You don't need after market gauges fyi just do a cluster swap... cheaper and plug and play plenty of right ups on here on how to do it... something is off tho... any oil leaks?