I am seeking the proper oil filter for a 235 Chevy. I installed a filter housing off a 1948 Chevy 6 cyl that looks the same as what is called for on the 1959 but has a band around it versus ears welded to the cannister. I am trying to install a WIX #51100 filter but it seems too high. I measured and 4 3/8 inches from the bottom spring to the top edge, looks like what is the max I can fit. The lid threads are recessed and just reach the tube at 4.5". Am I being too gentle in attempting to suppress the spring in the bottom of the cannister or just not obtaining the correct filter element? It is not the beehive cannister and it is not the 2 quart unit. Any help would be appreciated. If I have done it correctly, I have attached a picture of my housing. If you know the correct part number or tell me what I am doing wrong I would appreciate it.
The canister may either be improperly assembled, based on your description, or perhaps it's not an AC unit? This diagram shows the correct "internals" for an AC canister. Note the spring goes on top of the filter, not underneath, and there is a single spacer bushing with flange at the bottom (red arrows). When assembled, the spring is held captive on the top bolt (which has a groove that engages the spring).
Also, I have a Purolator aftermarket filter canister on my '53 (installed long ago by a former owner). It takes a shorter filter than the AC canisters, but is easy to spot the difference, since the center bolt has a wing-nut style "handle" versus the hex head on the AC canister center bolt.
drdoug, I spoke wrong, there is no spring at the bottom, just a rigid washer. The top has a stiff spring but the head on the cap is welded in place. I found, just now, that a WIX 51010 filter will work, after another trip to the auto supply store. Thanks for the schematic and pictures.
