Oil Filter: Description and Operation

The oil filter is a full flow type filter with a relief valve built into the paper filter element. Particles of metal from wear, airborne dirt, carbon and other impurities can get into the oil during use and could cause accelerated wear or seizing it allowed to circulate through the engine. The oil filter, integrated into the oil line, removes these impurities as the oil passes through it. The filter is mounted outside the engine to simplify replacement of the filter element. A relief valve is also included ahead of the filter element to relieve the high oil pressure in case the filter element becomes clogged with impurities. The relief valve opens when the oil pressure overpowers the force of the spring. Oil passing through the relief valve by-passes the oil filter and flows directly into the main oil hole in the engine.