Oil canister to spin on conversion

[Michael S.]

I kno w this not correct, but my 64 is just a driver at this point. So along those lines, I was wondering about changing out my filter assembly from
canister to spin on. The block is a replacement CE block with 4 bolt mains. Would this be a post-68 block? What parts do I need to change this out? Thanks in advance for any reponses.

[Joe L.]

Re: Oil canister to spin on conversion

Mike-----

If the block is an ORIGINAL 4 bolt main block, then it should already be equipped with provisions for a spin-on oil filter adapter (GM #3952301). All you need to do is bolt this on, and "you're there".

If the block is currently set up for a cannister style filter, then there are these possibilities:

1) the block is NOT an original 4 bolt main block and it's a pre-68 style block which has been CONVERTED to 4 bolt mains. In that case, you will need to use a conversion spin-on adapter to render it spin-on filter capable. These are easily available in the aftermarket. In this case, though, you want to be sure that you use a conversion adapter which uses regular Chevrolet PF-25/35/454/1218 style oil filters;

2) the block is an original 69+ 4 bolt main block but it was originally used in a truck application. In this case, it will be fitted with a special adapter which uses a canister-style oil filter on a block designed for use with a spin-on filter. In this case, all you need do is to temove the 2 bolts holding this adapter on, remove the adapter, and bolt on the GM #3952301 adapter.

If you advised as to the CASTING NUMBER of the block (found on the bellhousing flange below the rear of the driver's side cylinder head), we'd be able to say more about which block you have.

GM NEVER manufactured an original 4 bolt main cylinder block for any pre-1969 small block application and they never manufactured a cylinder block designed and machined for a small block canister style filter which had 4 bolt mains

[Michael S.]

Re: Oil canister to spin on conversion

Thank you for the response Joe, I was hoping that you were lurking!! I posted this today at work so no casting number - sorry. I will post the casting number tommorrow, I really appreciate any help. Thank you.

[Michael S.]

Re: Oil canister to spin on conversion

Joe, the casting number is 3959512. When I look at the bypass on ther car, is ther a number on it to tell me if I need the other bypass to make the conversion kit work? Thanks for your help on this matter Joe.

Mike

[Joe L.]

Re: Oil canister to spin on conversion

Jim------

It would have to be a 3959512! This is a SERVICE-only 327 cid casting. Although released in 1969 for SERVICE, I believe that this block has the pre-68 oil filter configuration. I'm not 100% sure, though.

Anyway, remove and carefully examine the oil filter adapter on the block now. Look for a casting number. If the number is a 7 digit number that begins with a "5", then it's the pre-68 configuration. In that case, you need an aftermarket oil filter adapter to convert to spin-on type filter.

If the adapter casting number begins with a "3", then the block uses the 68+ style filter (even though the adapter on it now may be for a canister-style filter). In that case, a GM #3952301 adapter should bolt right on.

[Michael S.]

Thanks very much Joe! *NM*