Knock-off oil filters

[kennny1976]

I ordered a Amazon oil filter to replace my Kawasaki 49065-7010 oil filter which goes on my Scag Wildcat (Kawasaki engine FD731V).
Now I am a little concerned if it is as good as the original Kawasaki brand? It says "made in China". Any comments?

 

[MParr]

Why didn't you just go to Walmart and get a FRAM TG4967?

 

[StarTech]

Why didn't you just go to Walmart and get a FRAM TG4967?

Because the OP probably didn't know it was a cross. Not every cross is noted on many sites.

But many China filters are just as good as American ones; although, I prefer using American products when they are priced reasonable. Just like I prefer local purchases whenever I can but being a business I have to stay competitive priced too so I use distributors for purchases.

And just like Chinese products can be junk so can American products, just depends on the quality control of the products. And some of the Chinese products I use here are actually better than the American product or even OEM product. Just to do your research.

 

[MParr]

I use here are actually better than the American product or even OEM product.

Exactly! Microgard Select, from O'Reilly Auto Parts, and NAPA Gold are sourced from either China or Vietnam. NAPA dropped WIX as a supplier because the quality dropped off.

 

[Skippydiesel]

Thoughts On The Matter:

Problem with filters (especially the spin-on/enclosed kind) is that the end user (us) do not have the equipment, technical expertees to make an informed judgement as to how effective the filter is.
As others have noted, where the filter is made has little bearing on its quality (quality, in this instance, being how well it filters, while allowing good fuel/air/oil flow).
Standards met and the availability of specifications, is your best method for determining quality. Unfortunatly such information can be hard to find or completely absent.
A further angst for the consumer is that your filter supplier may, without notice, change manufacture - the filter costs & looks the same but does it meet the same standards????

Flow Restriction;
This is not such a big deal for fuel & air ie little if any damage will result and the effects should be obvious to the machine operator. Oil filtration is another matter - The effect of restricted oil flow could be catastrophic. If you are operating a sophisticated machine you may have gauges that show oil temperature/pressure and or warning lights, so timely intervention may save your engine. Most of us don't have this level of sophistication, so the first sign of restricted oil flow, may be overheating or even a seized engine.

Ineffective Filtration;
Probably not a serious problem for oil & fuel. An air filter that is not doing its job could quickly lead to a "dusted" engine. Damaged rings & bore may result in costly repairs/replacement.

In summary;
Purchase filters from well known brands, who likly value their reputation.
Fuel filters - If possible use gauze filters that can be inspected and/or serviced - check regularly. Filter fuel into tank.
Air filters - Check regularly for contamination build up. Service/Replace as needed (not necessarily at set intervals)
Oil filters - Do your best. Replace at recommended intervals.

 

[Tiger Small Engine]

Thoughts On The Matter:

Problem with filters (especially the spin-on/enclosed kind) is that the end user (us) do not have the equipment, technical expertees to make an informed judgement as to how effective the filter is.
As others have noted, where the filter is made has little bearing on its quality (quality, in this instance, being how well it filters, while allowing good fuel/air/oil flow).
Standards met and the availability of specifications, is your best method for determining quality. Unfortunatly such information can be hard to find or completely absent.
A further angst for the consumer is that your filter supplier may, without notice, change manufacture - the filter costs & looks the same but does it meet the same standards????

Flow Restriction;
This is not such a big deal for fuel & air ie little if any damage will result and the effects should be obvious to the machine operator. Oil filtration is another matter - The effect of restricted oil flow could be catastrophic. If you are operating a sophisticated machine you may have gauges that show oil temperature/pressure and or warning lights, so timely intervention may save your engine. Most of us don't have this level of sophistication, so the first sign of restricted oil flow, may be overheating or even a seized engine.

Ineffective Filtration;
Probably not a serious problem for oil & fuel. An air filter that is not doing its job could quickly lead to a "dusted" engine. Damaged rings & bore may result in costly repairs/replacement.

In summary;
Purchase filters from well known brands, who likly value their reputation.
Fuel filters - If possible use gauze filters that can be inspected and/or serviced - check regularly. Filter fuel into tank.
Air filters - Check regularly for contamination build up. Service/Replace as needed (not necessarily at set intervals)
Oil filters - Do your best. Replace at recommended intervals.

An oil filter is a good example of quality of product, price, and where it is made. I use Briggs and Stratton oil filters that are bought in bulk. Are these made in USA or China? Many parts these days are made in China and the quality has greatly improved over the years. I would obviously rather buy American products, however, not as much is made here, and the price is often not competitive.