The 216 engine had a by-pass filter which only filters some of the oil as it returns to the pan. Only something like 20% of the oil gets filtered as it goes through the engine. A full flow filter engine, filters all the oil as it flows through the engine. If you use a detergent oil like most oils available today you may loosen that sludge that will be in the bottom of your pan.These old engines used non-detergent oil.As for the filter canister, it was an option on these engines and not required (But a very good idea to have).I would guess your filter would be just fine but I would ask some of the other bolters on that. I am not good on the computer so hope I made sense.
Jason
