Pre-filling oil filter

[SVT 04]

Just wanted to get a few thoughts on this.

I doubt seriously if Ford or any other dealer would pre-fill an oil filter prior to install.

I mean really what long or short term affects does this have. Seems like personal preference to me.

I just switched to Mobil 1 synthetic on my L. She has 7,100K to date. Synthetic is probably not necessary, but it just keeps things cleaner and holds up better.

Hope to meet some of you at the Icebreaker :beer:

[DOHC 281]

I wonder too, if Ford techs do this.

I always used Valvoline in my "regular" daily driver Fords. These often get driven past 200K (the Taurus went 289K) with NO engine problems. I change oil and filter every 5K.

All past Mustangs used to get Mobil 1, mostly for on-track protection and for winter storage comfort (occasional cold starts).

Beginning with the 01 Cobra (and the 03 Ranger), I have switched from Mobil 1 to the 5W-20 Ford oil. It is available at Wal-Mart. I believe it is a synthetic blend?

:hrs:

[46 Cobra]

Interesting question. When I was a teenager (yes I was) and worked for the local Ford dealer I was instructed to always fill the oil filter prior to installation. If you ever have the opportunity to hear an engine first start after an oil change where it is not done you will hear more than a little bearing rattle and quickly appreciate why it is a good idea.

[xbnch]

I always try to pre-fill the filter. On some vehicles where the filter is sideways it is kind of difficult to do but you can at least get 1/2 qt. in it & not loose any when screwing it on.

[SVT 04]

Funny you brought up bearing rattle. When using Motorcraft oil and a Fram filter I heard rattle all the time on start up.

I didn't pre-oil the Motorcraft filter with the Mobil 1 synthetic, but noticed the rattle is gone. I think this set up is a winner.

I have heard Fram is one of the worst filters on the market. Don't ask me why I used it.

[animal]

I've never done it... mostly because it'd mean getting out from under the truck to do it.

For the record, most L owners notice piston slap (you could do a search on nloc) for a minute or two on startup after switching to mobile 1. It seems the ford oil quiets it down a bit so you notice when you make the switch to M1.