NA 3.8 Oil Filter Adapter change

[bhabben]

Folks,
I want to modify my METRIC oil filter adapter to use regular 13/16" filters like a PF24. This is on an '81 3.8 NA engine, so no oil cooler sandwich. My older 13/16" V8 plates are the wrong angle and would hit the frame. Is there some way to remove the threaded pipe from my V8 adapter and install it in the METRIC 3.8 housing? Drill and tap it? Or is it pressed in?
Thanks for any info.
Brett

 

[FJM568]

Nope...They are cast in...can't remove them...You need to find an old std thread V6 oil pump cover or see if GM still has a few new oil pump cover kits left...#12337254...A bit pricy, but the new cover comes with new oil pump gears, too...

 

[Red Regal T]

I have an 87 NA Regal I use. I would guess your housing is the same on your NA Regal. Just spin on a Purolator P30001. It's a very big oil filter....bigger than a pf24. Threads are slightly different on the filter but does not damage the pump housing threads. I've used these for years, both on my turbobuick and on my NA Buick with great success. I no longer use it on my turbo car because I installed a turbosaver, but if I didn't it would be a 30001.

 

[bhabben]

John,
That's the same filter as an FL1a, correct? I took a look at one off the shelf, and just looking at it you would not think that there would be enough 'meat' to hang on to the threads (18mm or .70866" vs. 3/4" or .75").
Will it strip if I use the regular 'turn 3/4 past contact' install?
Anyway, thanks for the cheap fix.
Adios,
Brett

 

[Red Regal T]

That's probably the same thing. I think 3/4" thread is it. I never used that number, just the purolator. I used a p30001 for at the very least 25 oil changes on my 12 second turbo car. Never had a problem or a leak. Tightens up with no damage to factory threads. Same with my NA Regal. Try it, you'll like it.