HappyTrails

Last week I removed the oil filter adapter and installed a Wix 51348 directly on the engine. Oil pressure is running about 5-10 lbs higher at freeway speed with the smaller filter. I was concerned about the filter inhibiting flow, thus causing higher pressure. But I checked the WIX data and both the standard filter and the smaller 513248 have the same flow rate: 7-9 gpm. That's good to know. I did not want the smaller filter starving the engine for oil. But comparing the WIX specs, I did find this: Standard filter is rated at 21 micron filtration. The smaller 51348 is rated at 15 micron. Actually filtering better, and at the same flow rate. Being smaller, it just does not have the capacity to hold the same quantity of contaminants. Not a problem, since the motor is in great shape and I change oil and filter often.

Here's some pics and tips for the project:

A standard half inch drive ratchet and T60 bit are way to big to fit between the bolt and chassis rail as this photo shows:



EZ Red Tools sells a set of stubby Torx bits that fit in a box wrench and do the job:



The bit hugs the Torx bolt so close there is plenty of room to get the job done easy:



All the sizes you will ever need for about $35.



Never saw these in a store, but online tool joints have them available:


WIX 51348 installed on engine. Mission accomplished:

Boostwerks.com

Awesome info! I may have to do this as well. My adapter is leaking like every other used 4.0 out there.

Do you need an adapter for the block or is it straight bolt on?

HappyTrails

Spins right on! You just have to remove the big adapter locating roll pin from the block (not hard), and transfer the double threaded filter nipple from the adapter to the block. No brainer. Use a little loctite on it, though.

Between this change, and the new valve cover gasket, there are NO, as in ZERO leaks from the engine now! Totally worth the effort.

Crash_Course

My adapter isn't leaking, but holy crap I need those torx bits in my toolbox... like yesterday!