Choosing the BEST OIL FILTER...FRAM vs WIX vs K&N vs Others

Summary

In this video, the host conducts a high-end oil filter comparison, dissecting five premium brands to explore their materials and construction. With a focus on synthetic versus cellulose media, silicone versus rubber anti-drain back valves, and stamped steel versus coil springs, the analysis provides in-depth insights. Filters are tested for efficiency, micron ratings, and cost, offering viewers a comprehensive guide to choosing the best oil filter for their vehicle.

Takeaways

• 🔧 The video is a follow-up to a previous oil filter comparison, focusing on high-end oil filters.
• 🏁 The initial test compared five popular oil filter brands, ranging from $3 to $15, dissecting them to understand their differences.
• 📊 Viewers requested more in-depth information, such as material composition, synthetic vs. cellulose blend, and construction details like spring and can thickness.
• 🚗 All filters tested are for a 1997 Nissan Maxima, ensuring consistency across the comparison.
• ⚙️ Efficiency ratings for all filters are 99%, with micron ratings between 20 and 25, indicating high performance in filtering motor oil.
• 🔩 The base plate of the filters varies in the number of inlet holes, with the Fram having the most at ten.
• 🌡️ All filters feature silicone anti-drain back valves, which are superior to rubber in extreme temperatures.
• 🔄 Bypass springs are either stamped steel or coil spring, with Wix and K&N using the latter, indicating a higher quality construction.
• 💰 The Fram Pro synthetic filter is the most economical at $8, offering good value for money.
• 🏎️ The K&N filter is designed for high-flow rates with heavier oils, using a special impregnated cellulose material, and includes a safety wire fitting for racing applications.

Q & A

What was the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video was to conduct a high-end oil filter shootout, comparing various brands and models of oil filters, focusing on their construction, materials, and features to help viewers understand the differences and make informed choices.

What was the audience's response to the first oil filter video?

The audience enjoyed the information provided in the first video, but about 20% of them requested more specific details, such as the materials used, the type of media, and the construction of the filters.

What are the similarities among all five oil filters tested?

All five filters have a 99% efficiency rating and are rated between 20 to 25 microns for filtering motor oil. They also have metal spines and end caps, and are designed for the same vehicle, a 1997 Nissan Maxima.

What is the difference between silicone and rubber anti-drain back valves?

Silicone anti-drain back valves are superior to rubber ones because they perform better in both very cold and very hot temperatures, ensuring oil is retained in the filter for a quick start after the engine is turned off.

What are the two types of bypass springs mentioned in the video?

The two types of bypass springs mentioned are stamped steel and coil spring. The Wix and K&N filters use coil springs, while the Fram, Royal Purple, and AMSOIL filters use stamped metal.

Why did K&N choose to use cellulose instead of synthetic material in their filter?

K&N uses a special impregnated cellulose material because it performs well at high flow rates, which is beneficial for racing applications where heavier oils are often used.

What is the recommended replacement interval for the Wick's XP oil filter?

The Wick's XP oil filter recommends following the vehicle manufacturer's recommended interval for oil changes, especially considering extreme conditions such as long idle speeds, towing, or cold weather.

What is the significance of the inlet holes on the base plate of the oil filters?

The number of inlet holes on the base plate affects the flow rate of oil into the filter. The Wix filter has the most with ten inlet holes, which could potentially allow for better oil flow.

How does the Fram Pro synthetic filter compare to the Fram Extra Guard in terms of construction?

The Fram Pro synthetic filter has superior construction compared to the Fram Extra Guard, with metal end caps and a metal center tube, whereas the Extra Guard has a cardboard end cap.

What are the two filters that look identical according to the video?

The Royal Purple and the AMSOIL filters appear to be identical in design and construction, with only the color and branding being different.