I have a 4.0L engine and it uses the FL1(ph8) type filter. I am wondering if I can use the FL400(ph3600) since I have one around the garage. I know they will physically interchange but besides their capacity is their any difference.

 

Why? With the FL-1A you carry more oil and have more filter area to filter more efficiently. I would leave it. But if you want the other filter, I would check with a filter catalog to check the nipple thread size to make sure it is the same and check to make sure the gasket is the same size also.

 

Most people go the other way. Napa makes a larger filter that usually works great on 4.0L applications, number 1773.

I doubt it would be a problem using the smaller filter though. Just make sure it gets changed in 3000 miles.

 

Wife's 3.0 Aerostar spec's the FL400, but I have run the FL1A the last couple OCIs. Threads are the same. Gasket is slightly different (Wix site gives gasket diameters), but within the extra surface area of the mounting flange. Why do you want to go smaller?

 

I don't want to go to using a smaller filter all the time but I am thinking of using the extra filter. I really don't see much difference anyway considering that most modern engines rely on smaller filters than they did years ago. The GM 4.3LV6 at one time used a PF52 which is the size of the FL400, it now specs the PF47 which is half the size of the FL400. The Larger filter will have more area to trap dirt and the larger oil capacity is always good but is the need really there.

 

It shouldn't be a problem. Because of fitment issues, my Bronco has a smaller filter than my other Ford with a 4 cyl engine. Go figure...