Mahle OX128/D oil filter looks too small

[Spiegeleis]

Went to replace my filter the other day, and found that the openings at the end of this filter were about 1/2-3/4" smaller than the filter already on there (which was another brand--either Porsche or Hengst). The ends are ringed with a material that looks much like felt, and I'm wondering if this is supposed to be stretched as a part of normal installation.

Anyone else run into this with this (or any other) filter?

[Jeff Alton]

The Porsche Branded Filter is the OX128/D

[smadsen]

Put a little motor oil on both ends of the filter to soak the paper membrane around the center hole. Then push it on the male tube part in the filter housing with a slight twisting motion. Then do the same with the cover. Don't forget the new O ring. If you catch the threads, you're good to go. Use the mfgs torque spec.

[Spiegeleis]

Turns out that while indeed the cutout in the felt-like material at the ends is smaller than the tube on which they are mounted, it is none-the-less the right part. The "felt" is a bit stretchy.

Thanks for the feedback.

[smadsen]

I think the nub the filter membrane goes over pokes a bigger hole in the membrane. When it folds over it helps create a seal. I found a little oil on the membrane helps ease the broaching process.