PF 141 Oil Filter Element

[John Lokay]

I recently purchased an AC Delco PF 141 Oil Filter Element and noticed that its design has changed from what I am accustomed to seeing. The outside circumference of the filter is wrapped in a layer of the paper element with little holes cut through out it. The old type of filter element that I have used in the past did not have this outside paper covering the inside paper pleats. Did AC Delco can the design of this thing and I assume its safe to use with my 66 coupe? I would like to hear feedback from those who have used this re-designed filter element. Thanks

[John H.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

I have a Delco PF-141 I just bought as well, and it's as you describe - the "generic" (P141) that LICS sells is 100% identical to it, except it doesn't say AC-Delco on it (although the other markings and construction are identical). The other options are still out there - Fram CH200PL, Lee L141HP, Motorcraft FL22, Purolator L30141, and Wix 51143.

[John Lokay]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

John,
So I assume that you have used the revised PF 141 filter and you are satifisfied with it, no problems?

[Joe L.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

John-----

If it's in an AC-Delco box and labeled PF-141, I would not be concerned, at all, about its use for your application.

One of the things that I expect has happened here is this: the market for these cartridge-type oil filter elements must have shrunk dramatically in the past 20 years and, likley, shrinks further every year. It may have reached a point where it is only economically feasible for 1 manufacturer to produce them. Of course, all of the major filter suppliers probably want to have the item in their line-up, so the one manufacturer that makes them does it for all and simply imprints their brand name and logo on the filters.

[John L.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

The purolator filter has a similar paper/vinyl with holes surrounding the filter. If I remember correctly, the original Fram replacement filters had this and I think -- the original PF141 filters also had it.

john lolli

[Craig S.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

Joe - I expect you are right...I have seen very OLD PF141 filters at shows that were similar to this new design, then, I have seen more recent versions (about 5-8 years ago that show the pleated paper design visible, and the Delco box says made in USA...I have about 4 of these myself. Then, I have half a dozen newer units in Delco box, same pleated design, but with Made in Mexico, which I bought at AutoZone and Pep Boys about 2 years ago in the $2.50-$3.50 each range. Actually, I like these best...why?...they are constructed of the "fuzzy" filter material used in the AC Delco Duraguard filters....and probably trap dirt better than the smooth, sharply pleated USA versions. However, my local cheapo suppliers like AutoZone, Pep Boys, Kmart, Checker/Kragen, all stopped carrying the PF141 better than a year ago...I was probably one of the few customers for these pre-spin on's in Tucson....so I haven't even seen this newest design. I wonder if it is made by Purolator now....they stacked up well in that Mopar filter evaluation website....FRAM was pretty much at the bottom of the pile in quality....Craig

[Joe L.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

Craig----

If, as I suspect, the manufacture of these filter elements has fallen to one source, I expect that Purolator is that manufacturing source. Purolator is a "major player" in the area of "custom labeling" for all sorts of filters sold under other brand names.

I really doubt that AC-Delco actually manufactures any of these filters anymore. I can't believe that there exists enough demand for their high volume manufacturing operations.

[R N.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

Gentlemen:

I just purchased 2 filter elements from GM Canada, pt. # 729823, PF141C
They don't have the paper/vinyl that you have mentioned. It has steel with the holes in it. It also has a ink stamp WIX and the Wix part number imprinted.
Hope this helps.

Kurt

[Craig S.]

Re: PF 141 Oil Filter Element

Interesting, sounds for sure like WIX is supplying Delco, and also Purolator....Craig