Oil cooler adapter bypass valve

Fram was what Merc used on their performance sterndrives engines for years
You also have the choice to install much longer filters if you have room

 

I have plenty of room as the filter is remotely mounted. I personally have used FRAM filters on many cars with no problem. However I read more than a few instances of FRAM filters causing a similar problem I have been experiencing. As I am not seeing this issue when the oil is still on the cool side (oil has higher viscosity and is being bypassed around cooler/filter?). When it is thoroughly warmed up the "thinner" oil is not being bypassed and the filter could then a restriction in the oil circuit? I know that the bypass is there for this reason as well, however as the oil is now thinner the result is a slight drop in pressure?

Am I way off base here?

Oil level is spot on with the recommended SAE 30 wt.
Pressure is otherwise fine.

 

Some filters include a built in bypass, which might be the problem with the one you're using. Also use a multi grade oil, which will lessen any bypass issues, especially in cold weather. Which model Fram are you using, I can look it up for a bypass.

 

The filter was a DG8A, I'll give 20W 50 a shot this year as well.
I appreciate your advice, thanks!

 

If you're worried about cold oil by pass pressures, use 5W50 synthetic.

Shop around, I get $72 retail for fifty bucks, lasts for ever too.

However, you've got nothing to worry about a little by pass oil, it's still clean and beats the hell out of oil starvation!

 

I agree 100% however my concern is the loss of pressure I am experiencing over 3500 RPM when the oil is hot.

 

Yes, the Fram DG8A does have a bypass relief valve. Use a "full flow" filter, instead of a bypass unit.

Use the Donaldson part P550008 as the full flow replacement for your filter. Lastly, Fram is pretty famous for crappy filters. Restrictive filtration material, insufficient number of holes, too small a diameter of holes, etc., etc., etc.

Purolator's PureONE and Mobil one Extended Performance (Champion made) filters have received much higher reviews then Fram, of the commonly available filters for your engine. Mobil One is costly compared to Purolator. If you find a Motorcraft filter, it's a Purolator and usually cheaper.

 

Too much pressure on your gauge can be as big a problem as too little.

I wouldn't be concerned about the small fluctuation you describe.

Do let us know however what difference a quality filter makes.

If you are that concerned about your pressure, you'd be better off installing a high/low pressure light and audible alarm.

It would free up your attention to driving the boat.

Besides, who checks their gauge as diligently as an automatic pressure sensing alarm?

 

Indeed! I do tend to keep an eye and a half on the oil pressure gauge.

 

I really appreciate your time and research. I will be switching to a full flow filter, and multi grade oil. As soon as I get the bottom wet I'll post the outcome. As it's still a bit on the frosty side here in NJ I have some time to kill before I get underway.

 

What research, I have a catalog library.

 

You had to take the effort to open them up
I really appreciate your, and everyone else's input.

 

IF you wish to monitor the results think about installing a "Murphy Gauge from the Murphy Company

These are mechanical and can have both a high and low alarm , owner settable.

Not that expensive and will allow you to view other things (like the water) until the alarm sounds.

 

No you don't, you can't.

Even if you did, then you're a distracted driver and dangerous.

Why do you think the aviation industry uses alarms?

Not worth arguing about but I hope you get my point.

 

I do use the half of the better eye if it makes you feel any better

All kidding aside, I completely understand your concern and I meant that as a figure of speech more than anything. Running distracted is idiotic at best, even at my break neck cruising speed of 12 knots!