The rubber grommets in the filter element should be a snug fit on the center post so the oil gets forced through the filter media before returning to the crankcase. The spring and washers just keep the filter element centered top to bottom in the housing.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!