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Experts agree that the most important maintenance item for an engine is clean oil. This means changing the oil and filter at the manufacturer’s recommended change interval using quality oil and a top-notch oil filter. Check out our picks for the best oil filters for Cummins 6.7L motors.
Summary List
- Best Overall: Fleetguard LF16035 Stratapore Oil Filter
- Best Value: WIX Filters 57620XP Spin-On Lube
- Honorable Mention: K&N HP-4003 Performance Wrench-Off Oil Filter
- Honorable Mention: Genuine Chrysler Part 5083285AA Oil Filter
- Honorable Mention: Mopar OEM 6.7 Liter Fuel Filter
- Honorable Mention: Royal Purple High-Performance Premium Oil Filter
- Honorable Mention: iFJF Fuel Filter
Types of Oil Filters for 6.7 Cummins
Spin-on and Cartridge Oil Filters
A cartridge oil filter is one where you only replace the cartridge (the filter element) when you change filters. A spin-on filter is the type where you replace the entire filter, element, and filter housing when you change filters. In the early years of automobiles and trucks, all oil filters were the cartridge type. Later, manufacturers started using spin-on oil filters because they are in some respects easier to remove and install. However, they are more difficult to dispose of properly, especially today, where disposing of automotive fluids is strictly regulated. As a result, some auto and truck makers are again using cartridge-type oil filters because they are less harmful to the environment.
Synthetic Fiber Elements vs. Paper Elements
Originally all filter elements were made of paper. They did the job satisfactorily but as time progressed, manufacturers developed synthetic elements. Today most oil filters have a synthetic fiber element. Manufacturers design synthetic elements so they efficiently do their job of filtering out impurities like rust, dirt, and metal particles. Fewer impurities mean an engine that operates more efficiently, gives you more power and enables your engine to last longer. In addition, synthetic elements are more durable so you don’t have to change the filter as often. This saves you money, time, and effort.
Wrench-Off vs. Standard Filters
Wrench-off oil filters allow you to use an open-end, socket, or crescent wrench to help in removing the oil filter from the motor. With standard oil filters, you often need a specialty tool variously called a strap wrench, oil filter pliers, or swivel wrench, to help you remove the filter.
Look for a hexagonal nut built into the filter and located at the end of it, opposite the gasket end.
Best Oil Filters for 6.7 Cummins: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Fleetguard LF16035 Stratapore Oil Filter
Best Value
WIX Filters 57620XP Spin-On Lube
Honorable Mention
Ku0026N HP-4003 Performance Wrench-Off Oil Filter
Honorable Mention
Genuine Chrysler Part 5083285AA Oil Filter
Honorable Mention
Mopar OEM 6.7 Liter Fuel Filter
Honorable Mention
Royal Purple High-Performance Premium Oil Filter
Honorable Mention
iFJF Fuel Filter
Our Verdict
We chose the Fleetguard LF16035 Stratapore Oil Filter for its strength and overall performance. Our best value choice is the WIX Filters 57620XP Spin-On Lube Filter.
Benefits of Oil Filters for 6.7 Cummins
- Protection. A quality oil filter filters out debris, rust, and metal particles that may be in the oil. These contaminants can cause premature wear and engine problems if not removed. Properly filtered oil makes your engine last longer and perform better.
- Enhanced resale value. When it comes time to sell, you have a great selling point when you can prove that you used a quality filter and oil at the proper change intervals. This shows you took care of your vehicle and the engine, which adds value.
- Better mileage. Studies have shown that using a quality oil filter when you change your oil leads to better engine performance. Better performance automatically gives you better fuel economy.
- Better for the environment. When an oil filter properly filters the oil in your engine, it makes the engine run more efficiently. This means it burns the fuel more completely, which results in less air pollution.
Oil Filter for 6.7 Cummins Pricing
- $8-$12. In this price range, you will find mostly cartridge-type oil filters. You will also find many economy spin-on and wrench-off types. These are low-priced filters that do the job.
- $13-$18. You’ll find spin-on, wrench-off, and cartridge-type filters in this price range also. However, you’ll get a higher-quality filter with more filtering capability that’s still easy on your pocketbook.
- $19-$33. These are mostly spin-on filters. They feature high micron ratings (25-30), which yield high-efficiency filtering. The premium construction of these filters include heavy-duty gaskets and super-strength housings.
Key Features
Filter Element
The filter element actually removes the impurities and contaminants from the oil. Manufacturers used paper originally as the material of choice for the element but have since replaced paper with synthetics. The quality of filter elements ranges from adequate to excellent. Check the element details before deciding which filter is best for your needs.
Construction
The quality of the construction of spin-on and wrench-off filters can vary. This includes the metal from which the manufacturer creates the housing and the quality of the gasket. Research and read reviews about the quality of the construction of the filter you want to buy so you get one that is strong and long-lasting.
Spin-on and Wrench-off
Spin-on filters are easier to work with than cartridge filters in some respects because you simply spin the new filter on to install it. No need to hassle with a messy filter element. Similarly, you spin it off to remove the filter when its useful life is over. Wrench-off filters have a built-in “nut” on the housing, opposite the gasket end. You apply a wrench to this nut to easily remove the filter from the engine.
Other Considerations
- Environmental. Some car and truck manufacturers are reverting to cartridge-type oil filters because this type can be easier on the environment. With a cartridge oil filter, you only discard the filter element (and of course, the oil), not the entire filter when you change the oil. With millions of oil changes happening on the planet every day, discarding just the element is less wasteful.
- Fit. Before performing a DIY oil change, do your research. You do not want to be in the middle of changing the oil only to discover you ordered the wrong filter. Read reviews to make doubly sure the filter you want to buy fits your vehicle.
- Price. Prices range from around $8 to as high as $33 and anywhere in between, for a single oil filter. It makes no sense to spend $33 when a $12 filter will work just as well. However, if an $8 filter appears to be poor quality, it’s best to spend a few more dollars to buy a better quality filter and peace of mind.
Tips
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes before you do an oil change. This loosens the oil a bit, so it is easier to work with. But don’t run the engine too long—you don’t want to work with oil that is hot.
- Safety first. Set the parking brake and put the vehicle in gear before you jack it up. Then block the wheels and put jacks under the frame.
- After you have completed the job, dispose of the used oil safely and follow local recycling laws. Most recycling centers recycle used motor oil.
FAQs
A: As a general rule, change conventional oil every 3,000 miles and full synthetic oil every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. For specifics, see your owner’s manual.
A: When you change the oil you remove contaminants like metal particles, rust, and debris. If you don’t change the oil, these can cause premature wear on the engine, prevent the motor from operating efficiently, and even cause the motor to malfunction.
A: No, but it can be messy. Be prepared to get at least a little oil on your hands from removing the oil pan drain plug and the filter. You need a pan to catch the used oil and filter and a specialty tool called a strap wrench in order to remove the old filter of the vehicle. You also need a socket wrench or crescent wrench to remove the drain plug.