Are oil filters interchangeable if they fit?

[US1Fountain]

The gen in my cruiser (1993) is a Quicksilver generator, made by Generac. The filters listed in the manual are discontinued, Generac and Mercury. I was able to cross reference the Generac number to a current Generac filter. The Merc number was a dead end, with no superceded number listed by Merc thats current. These numbers also do not cross over to any other brand. It currently has a Merc filter for 4 stroke outboards installed by PO's mechanic. I'm assuming because it fits and is a stock on the shelf Mercury item. Being unsure of the actual compatibility, I ordered the Generac filter online.

So with that all said, as long as the threads, physical size, o-ring sealing surface match, can any filter be used, allowing me to purchase one that is readily available either from my local auto parts store or at my marina w/o having to order online? Ignoring the brand and internal filtering material or which is better argument for this post, but the actual workings of the filter itself.

Thanks

[Simi 60]

I would say yes but why not look at one of the many filter cross referencing websites for confirmation.

[Paul L]

Did you try putting the generac number into the Wix cross reference? The generac numbers I put in all came up with a cross ref.
Wix Filters - Product Catalog search results

[Reefmagnet]

Generally yes, but if the original filter had an integral non return valve and the substitute does not then this could be a problem. Some filters also have a high pressure bypass to prevent them blowing out from high oil pressure if blocked.

[US1Fountain]

I have tried every cross referencing chart I could. All came up blank. I get a message that my number is valid, but no matching cross overs. The current Generac # superceded from the old original number is 75755, thus I ordered it. Rather be able to use a current Mercury or Mobil 1 filter that can be purchased anywhere vs ordering a Generac filter.

Reefmagnet, that is what I'm unsure of, the internal design. I'm assuming I can look inside the filter opening of my Generac filter I received for the return valve, for comparison against others?

[LeaseOnLife]

https://www.dieselequipmentinc.com/products/p502022


comes up with

WIX-51394 ,557085

[US1Fountain]

The mention of the anti drain back valve sparked my curiosity. A search of the web provided a lot of info on the design of filters. Now have a clear understanding on design/purpose of the components. My Generac filter does indeed have the anti drain back valve, as well as the high pressure relief valve, as the majority do. A quick peek in the filters opening, and knowing the thread sizes and mounting face dimensions, will be enough to verify an alternative filter.

Thanks

[carlheintz]

Just keep in mind, you can usually put a bigger filter on without harm, a smaller filter may clog up the works. Common sense, but my yard tried some monkey business on me along those lines when I had my old Perkins in my CT-41.... I ended up putting an aftermarket filter I got at an auto parts store.

[newhaul]

Spent 30 seconds and here is the cross for several current filters from several manufacturers.
GENERAC 75755 - 4 cross references | oilfilter-crossreference.com

Replacement oil filters for GENERAC 75755:
Brand Model
Baldwin
B228
Donaldson
P502022
Fleetguard
LF3338
LUBER-FINER
PH2816

[MJH]

I posed the same question to Practical Sailor Magazine a number of years ago because of the high price of replacement filters for my Volvo Penta diesel without being able to locate an after-market manufacturer (I'm still looking).

The answer they posted was that oil filters have specific specifications for specific engines and that it was recommended to use only those rather than risk damaging your engine.

That said, I would think that if you are able to note exactly what those specifications are and find another filter also with those specs, go ahead and use it.

Another idea revolves around the actual manufacturer of engines these days often sold under different brand names. Perhaps research into that quagmire of marketing will lead you to a different engine make/model.

Good Luck.

~ ~ _/) ~ ~ MJH

[newhaul]

Originally Posted by MJH

I posed the same question to Practical Sailor Magazine a number of years ago because of the high price of replacement filters for my Volvo Penta diesel without being able to locate an after-market manufacturer (I'm still looking).

The answer they posted was that oil filters have specific specifications for specific engines and that it was recommended to use only those rather than risk damaging your engine.

That said, I would think that if you are able to note exactly what those specifications are and find another filter also with those specs, go ahead and use it.

Another idea revolves around the actual manufacturer of engines these days often sold under different brand names. Perhaps research into that quagmire of marketing will lead you to a different engine make/model.

Good Luck.

~ ~ _/) ~ ~ MJH

what engine ?
I work on several boats in gig harbor .

[MJH]

Originally Posted by newhaul

what engine ?
I work on several boats in gig harbor .

Volvo Penta D2-55B.

~ ~ _/) ~ ~ MJH

[newhaul]

Originally Posted by MJH

Volvo Penta D2-55B.

~ ~ _/) ~ ~ MJH

crosses to the FLEETGUARD LF17476
And Williams Oil Filter Service Company on Puyallup ave in Tacoma has them.

[MJH]

Thanks.


~ ~ _/) ~ ~ MJH

[Lepke]

Not only will any filter work that has the same sealing ring diameter and center thread, but you can use longer filters, if available, that cause the oil to pass thru more slowly and allows the filter to catch more dirt.