OIL FILTERS

Most of the following filters can be found in automotive stores, or in the case of Kubota, at tractor or lawn stores (look in the yellow pages).

There are a few other items to consider besides cost:

• Size -- if you have installed a high output alternator, the filter length might dictate that a shorter filter be used regardless of brand. It’s imperative that some space be maintained between the head of the filter and the alternator adjusting arm. The shortest filter I’ve found is the KUBOTA. Other short filters are NAPA 1356, BOSH 72182, FRAM PH6607. However, these are also smaller in diameter meaning there is less filter element.
• Clogged filter by pass -- most (but NOT all) filters have a by-pass if the filter becomes clogged. The old saying, “Dirty oil is better than no oil at all” is very true. This by-pass can usually be detected by seeing a spring on the inside of the filter which opens when the differential pressure reaches 11-14 pounds. You might also look at the filter and see a black rubber diaphragm under the small inlet holes. This is an anti drain back valve that keeps the oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off ( or when removing the filter) .

FUEL FILTERS

Although there are a whole list of interchangeable fuel filters, these are the only two that I’ve found in stock. Most of the automotive stores are willing to order you a case if you are really interested. The special order price is usually higher. The RACOR fuel filter (which is first in line from the fuel tank) filters down to 2 microns. The filter mounted on the engine are 10 micron (much larger). I change my RACOR faithfully every 6 months and the engine mounted filter every 3 or 4 years.

DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENTS

Submitted by: RON HILL, APACHE #788