Looking like I'll have to either eliminate (#1) it or replace the o-rings sometime. No drips but a dirty greasy film building up from it. I'm sure I can do either but would like to eliminate it. I did a search on "is it worth doing" but nothing. So is it worth doing or in other words are there any negative sides to it. '96 XJ

 

Clearance issues and potential off-road damages happen with adapter elimination. The O-ring kit is inexpensive (~ $12) and the task of replacing it is pretty easy.

 

I've seen a lot of guys running without it. The only concern with eliminating it is it's possible for the engine mount bolt to puncture the filter. If your engine mounts are in good shape and you don't offroad it that hard you should be fine. I would always keep a spare filter and oil with me though.

 

I thought it would be kinda close for a filter down there.

 

Absolutely true. Ain't worth the risk.

 

Thinking the same. THANKS,guys.

 

i've had mine off for over 10 years.

only had one minor problem with the filter coming close to the sharp corner of a frame bracket. simple cut off disk fixed that.

now i don't have to worry about snapping that oil pressure sensor while trying to remove the filter. :P