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| Oil Filter Alternatives |
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Author: Archives Views: 7568 Votes: 5 |
Oil Filter Alternativesby Mike GuilloryReprinted by permissionThe oil and spin-on oil filter are the two items which control and minimize engine wear. Microscopic particles in the oil, if not removed, can act as an abrasive to wear down metal surfaces. In modern motorcycle engines, like the VFR and most others, oil passes directly from the filter to the engine for lubrication, so a good, properly-functioning filter is essential. You can't go wrong using the OEM filter for your motorcycle. However, sometimes these may be hard to find, especially on a Sunday or Monday, or in smaller communities, or you may think the OEM part is unnecessarily expensive. Or, you may want a better filter to further minimize engine wear. You deserve choices. If your motorcycle uses the Honda 15410-MM9-013 oil filter (most late model VFRs, CBRs, ST1100s, etc), following are some filters which are equivalent to, and possibly superior to, the Honda filter. These also fit most late-model Kawasaki sportbikes and Vulcans, plus most late-model Yamaha sportbikes, the VMAX, and the Royal Star. They also can be used on the mid-80s Magnas, Sabres, Interceptors, and Shadows. MOTORCYCLE-SPECIFIC FILTERS
Notes:
The information here is compiled from many conversations with the filter manufacturers, with other motorcyclists, fitment verification on my 1994 VFR750, and by consulting oil filter reference information published by filter manufacturers. All the automobile filters are cross-referenced with each other and to replace the Mazda filter shown, which is for the 1992 through 1994 MX3 V6 engine. A legitimate concern we all should have are the filter specs. Honda apparently does not tell companies like WIX or Purolator their filter specs. So, these companies buy examples of the filter in question, have it tested in a laboratory, then build replacement filters to the same physical dimensions and specs. That includes filtration efficiency and filter bypass valve pressure. Thus, there is no reason to believe the replacement motorcycle filters are in any way different from the Honda filters. Automobile filters may be a different matter. However, in conversations with filter manufacturers, it appears that filter media and bypass pressures are similar, sometimes the same, and certainly overlap. So, while using an automobile filter undeniably represents some additional degree of risk, if you either like to avoid all risk, or your motorcycle is still within its warranty period, you may prefer to stick with a motorcycle filter. I, however, believe the differences are only cosmetic, the risk is small, and I will not hesitate to use any of these automobile filters on my motorcycles. The only external difference is the automobile filters are about 1/4 inch longer, otherwise they are the same size as the motorcycle filters and function the same. Although the filter makers could not recommend my use of one of their automobile filters, they also could not provide a reason why I couldn't. Another point. The operating pressures of oil systems in motorcycles and automobiles are very similar, at mid-rpm normally in the 40 to 70 psi range, therefore one might correctly conclude that oil filter requirements are also very similar. Use of an automotive filter could be a benefit, if you really want the best protection. Newer high-performance filters like the AC Delco Ultraguard and the Mobil 1 really are better, though more expensive. Instead of traditional paper filtration, they use a wire-mesh supported synthetic medium that removes up to 98% of 8 to 10 micro particles, where conventional premium filters only remove 70% to 90%. But, unless you want to squeeze 500,000 plus miles from your motor, they probably are not worth the extra cost. Anyone happy with FRAM motorcycle filters are probably as well off using the FRAM PH7317 for $2.50 or less. However, several comments across the internet recently indicate that FRAM filters may not be as well made as the rest and perhaps should be used as a last resort. However, I have not verified that, and it is entirely possible that they have the best filters.But I personally will not be using them. My thanks go to all those who provided input to this project. It is my intent to update this every 6 months or so to keep it current. All the information presented here is accurate as far as I know. The contents make no recommendation as to what any individual should do, only to provide those interested with information helpful to make confident choices. I have no affiliation with any company in the motorcycle or filter business. The author is a Chemist, retired from a major Oil and Chemical Company, after a career in the Quality Assurance of Fuels, Lubricants, and Chemical products. He and his wife both ride. Comments or questions may be sent to Mike in Houston
Last update: 06:05 PM Sunday, September 26, 2004 |
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