FL-500-S Changed ?

[boB]

I bought a FL-500S (from Walmart) and found it did not fit my filter wrench (OEMtools 25400 A). The previous two filters fit ok, 30 flutes. The new filter dimensions check ok, the box and filter look good, no printing issues so I doubt it is counterfeit BUT it has 14 flutes instead of the expected 30! All the images online show 30 flutes.

I searched the forum but found nothing on this, has anyone else seen this?

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[cmxPPL219]

That's a great question. Obviously, counterfeit parts is a huge issue, and it's so bad that reputable retailers are often tricked into thinking they're buying legit items. Somehow, sometimes, bad parts make their way into the supply chain.

So, assuming the one you bought was counterfeit, the copy may have inadvertently been made with lesser flutes than the normal FL500s should have. Package quality is so good on fakes, that it can be almost impossible to spot, unless you have both side-by-side.

Edit:
The below Youtube vid from the "Ford and MotorCraft Parts" YT Channel, is dated Nov 2020.


At the :35s mark, they show a computer-generated image of a FL500S filter with less flutes, in the updated branding. Does yours from Wal-Mart look like this?

This looks to be an updated version of the FL500S, assuming yours looks like this exactly, as well.

 

[boB]

Yep, it looks a lot like the one in the video except shorter flutes.

 

[Rapid Red]

Walmart .......

 

[boB]

Walmart .......

I hear ya, but I don't think they are any less reputable than Autobone or the other chains. I guess I will start getting my filters at the dealer, most of them are not reputable in other ways but their parts should be authentic Ford.

 

[Rapid Red]

You must have the Ford label, we know Ford does not make oil filters. There are numerous you tube clips. Showing filters cut open, comparing the internals .

Have a look, can learn what in good and which are dogs. For instance everyone knows FRAM in a dog, you will see why.

You can nake up your own mind, my personal preference is the WIX.

 

[Schwerin]

You must have the Ford label, we know Ford does not make oil filters. There are numerous you tube clips. Showing filters cut open, comparing the internals .

Have a look, can learn what in good and which are dogs. For instance everyone knows FRAM in a dog, you will see why.

You can nake up your own mind, my personal preference is the WIX.

Motorcraft filters are known for good quality. Give a read on BobIsTheOilGuy. There are better, but MC is historically a quality product.

 

[Rapid Red]

I will take you word for it, but if you have a spicific artical in mind. I'll have a look. A quick scan of the fourm, see he mentions Fram as a good filter ............ -10 points

 

[J17GT]

Interesting. I picked up two FL500-S oil filters from Walmart and they are the updated sticker design, but with the typical 30 flutes like the older ones.

 

[Rapid Red]

You're talking about the exterior, why does that matter?

 

[ILStang]

You're talking about the exterior, why does that matter?

If the filter wrench you have no longer fits.....it matters

 

[I Bleed Ford Blue]

Maybe because his filter wrench is designed to grip the 30 flute style and doesn't work on the 14 flute.

 

[Rapid Red]

If the filter wrench you have no longer fits.....it matters

Ok I use a strap type, has a metal ban, not material. I gave up years ago with the filter wrench.

The ratchet penetrates the filter wrench, not allowing it to seat to the filter real well.

Plus as you just found they keep changeing the flutes.

 

[ice445]

Walmart .......

One of the few places that reliably stocks Motorcraft filters.

 

[shogun32]

One of the few places that reliably stocks Motorcraft filters.

or just buy a case and be done with it for a while?

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