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NAPA Spin on filter restricts flow?

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8.1K views 39 replies 24 participants last post by  cstarnes  
#1 ·
Has anyone else used a NAPA spin on filter and noticed higher tranny temps? I put one on not to long ago and noticed my tranny was always running about 190. I live here in AZ and right now its like 110 outside so I wasnt concerned. But, my buddy just put the same filter on yesterday and noticed the same thing. With 10,000 miles on the Allison filter, he was running cooler temps during the middle of the day than the new NAPA filter during the evening where it was about 15-20 degrees cooler outside. Has anyone else experieneced anything like this?
 
#2 ·
I had my trans flushed with syth. fuild and they put a napa filter on. my trans temps went up around 20 deg. I took out the magent no change. I replaced the napa with a stock and put the magnet back on no change. But I do like the stock filter better, just looks better not sure if it works better.
 
#3 ·
I had my fluid changed in mine and they put a Car Quest filter on, I noticed the same thing, temp went up about 15-20 degrees. Took the filter off and found that they had not put the magnet back on the new filter. Put a new magnet on with a new allison filter and the temps went back down to where they were.
 
#4 ·
I have the NAPA spin on and I don't see to much difference in temp on the Tranny, but next one will be a OEM allison filter;)
 
#5 ·
NAPA Filter

I have a NAPA filter on my 05 dually and run right around 160 to 180 pulling a 12k RV in 90 deg weather. 180 usually equates to hilly areas. I also am using a deep sump pan and filter. I did not notice a difference when I put on the NAPA filter. Before the new pan I used to see 180 to 200 empty with the OEM filter. I will be going back to the OEM to see if there is a drop with the next filter change. I would check the fluid level IAW the manual, to ensure you are not under or over full. Being over full can allow aireation of the oil and it will run hotter than if it is low. I think it is to be checked at 160 deg.
 
#8 ·
I bought my truck used so I am not sure what filter it had on it but it looked like a stock allison one. Anyways I put a Napa one on and it runs slightly cooler and it seems to take longer to get to temp. The napa filter looked identical to the orignal one except for the part # and some other writing.
 
#10 ·
Done a side-by-side of the filters, Allison filter is heaver, filter holes are larger and closer to the out-side of the filter housing, NAPA Gold (Wix) Smaller holes, more of they, closer to center of filter :cool:
 
#11 ·
Same problem NAPA tranny spin on is running 10to 20 degrees hotter ordering an oem.

L
 
#12 ·
We had this issue about 1 yr. ago with my tranny flush. Me and pop are NAPA (Wix) guys.. He used to own a NAPA when I was a kid.


Anyway, I immediately noticed the magnet covered/restricted the ring of holes nearest the threads... I decided to hold off a day and get another OEM filter and bring the NAPA back to the store and show the owner the difference in the flow area the magnet covered.

He called his supplier immediately and they in turn contacted Dana/Spicer/Wix. They were made aware of the issue just that week by several other distributors. That was a year ago and last time I called him he said they had redesigned it.

Sounds to me like you guys may have gotten old stock still on the shelf perhaps, I WOULD BE WARNED... IT MAY BE LIKE RUNNING A MARATHON BREATHING THREW A STRAW FOR YOUR ALLISON!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have been running the OEM filter ever since and have been happy. I buy in bulk from a ALLISON place about 1 hr. away. I keep a case on the shelf for just me, my pop, and my buddies d-max's.

Check it out guys, I'd hate for you to fry your trans. on a long haul.

BIG
:ro)
 
#13 ·
Partsguy662 post a differant part # for the filter that don't block the holes Here
 
#17 ·
It seems that the only filter to use is the oem Ally filter, it would save a lot of headaches and questions. The ONLY, number 1 choice filter to use...Thanks
 
#18 ·
no wonder why my tranny temp has gone up,I'm running a 7701.:eek:
called napa thats the only ones they have in stock.:mad:
I'm taking it off and getting an oem,hope temp. drops back down.:(
 
#21 ·
Shorty after I got my 05 I talked to a Allison service guy at the fuel pumps, ( he was driving a service truck had Allison all over it ) He told me that any other aftermarket filter ie NAPA, Wix, Fram, Hastings etc etc that the holes in the top of the filter do not line up properly. He recommened that I spend the extra money and buy a real Allison filter. Sounds like he wasn't BSn me.
 
#26 ·
I put a Wix on mine a few weeks ago. The truck has 10k miles on it. I was hesitant to put it on after seeing the holes partially covered by the magnet. It also felt pretty flimsy compared to the allison filter.
After reading this, I went and bought a couple of allisons. The Wix will go in the trash tomorrow........
 
#28 ·
The key to it is no matter what you pay for the filter or who's name is on the outside of it, You have to be aware of the location of the holes in the filter. We all know GM gets them made with there name on it and the manufacturer can change based on who's bid is the best when the contract ends.
 
#30 ·
Well my tranny temps did not go up! However it did raise the fluid level on the dip stick. And i never checked it until 10k after i put the napa filter on the truck..
Needless to say it was not a pretty site.. Fluid smelt burnt and lots od stuff on the magnet!!
changed the fluid and filter twice and hope all is well.. Used gm filters this time and not napa"s..

arm
 
#31 ·
This magnet on the spin on filter... um I have looked under my truck and do not see it. Is it inside the filter??? help needed please.
 
#33 ·
LOL Great so now I won't know if its still on there until I take it off again, hehe thanks for the response!! I am in the middle of a move so I had the dealer do my first oil change and put that filter on. Can't wait to have a garage again.