Spin-on oil filter adapter from MOSS - MINI Cooper Forum

MoMini · #1 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 08:32 AM

MOSS sells an adapter kit for converting the cartridge type oil filter on the MINI to a typical spin-on. This may make it easier for those without a nearby dealer to obtain and change their own filter. Any thoughts on doing this (pros/cons)?

ezrally · #2 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 08:41 AM

Sounds good, what kind of spin on filter (ie model/brand) works?
Is this right on to the existing filter area or remote mounting? Or is all this not explained yet...

MoMini · #3 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 10:26 AM

The adapter unit fits to the block and allows the new spin-on to be installed at the stock position (not remote). Comes with a K&N oil filter, but I'm sure that you can X-reference the K&N part # to several other manufacturer's part #s. You also have the option of attaching an oil cooling unit, which may interst MC owners.

ezrally · #4 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 11:49 AM

Thanks, the K & N oil filter I use on my car now is expensive ($12) and seems to look/be of the best quality I've had in an oil filter, no one else has a 1"nut on the end for loosening over tighten ones!

Any idea on the cost of this?
Thanks, it will be one of my first modifications since I change oil alot.

MoMini · #5 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 12:19 PM

Catalog is at home. I'll check and get back to you.

BruceK · #6 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 01:03 PM

I wonder if changing to an adapter with a spin-on filter will somehow affect the warranty? (issues about pressure testing, drain back valves, etc.?) I mean this because whatever generic application spin-on filter is used, (K&N, NAPA, Wix, Fram, AC, etc.), it will not have been certified by the filter manufacturer as suitable for use on a MINI.

I was completely against the primitive technology of the MINI's cartridge filter arrangement, until I did my car's first oil change. Now I don't think it is all that bad. Old fashioned, but not that bad.

The only thing I think is really stupid is the upside down arrangement of the filter. It is guaranteed to spill some of the oil when it's loosened. I wonder if the MOSS unit will attempt to mount the filter in a more normal vertical position? (assuming there is some room to do so).

ezrally · #7 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 01:32 PM

My BMW tech friend said with the upside down method with the filter was actually good in some way, forgot what it was though. I'll ask him again.

MoMini · #8 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 03:26 PM

Good point about the warranty. I'm sure if you ask the dealer the answer would be that it would, but I'm not sure if that is correct. As far as the mounting position, I don't think the angle will change judging from the picture in the catalog. I have not changed my oil yet (1600 miles) and maybe I will feel differently after I do, but the cartridge filter just seems like a pain in the arse.

jmardy · #9 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 06:14 PM

Any effect on the warranty would only pertain to an oil-related failure and even then, the onus would be on MINI to prove that the remote oil filter caused the problem (which is HIGHLY unlikely).
At least that is the case in the US.
Search for Moss-Magnusson Warranty Act
(15 U.S.C. 2302(C)) if you're really curious.

If you're feeling crafty, you could probably put together your own kit from
Permacool

MINIMiller · #10 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BruceK
...

I was completely against the primitive technology of the MINI's cartridge filter arrangement, until I did my car's first oil change. Now I don't think it is all that bad. Old fashioned, but not that bad.

The only thing I think is really stupid is the upside down arrangement of the filter. It is guaranteed to spill some of the oil when it's loosened. I wonder if the MOSS unit will attempt to mount the filter in a more normal vertical position? (assuming there is some room to do so).

Could you, or have you already, post your experience in changing the oil and oil filter cartridge. I'm dying to do my own but a little concerned due to the cartridge (I'm a generally handy person who performs most basic car repairs currently)

thanks

BruceK · #11 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 10:39 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MINIMiller
Could you, or have you already, post your experience in changing the oil and oil filter cartridge. I'm dying to do my own but a little concerned due to the cartridge (I'm a generally handy person who performs most basic car repairs currently)

I have not posted my oil change experience because I didn't feel I could add anything to what has already been discussed.

MINIMiller · #12 (**permalink**) Aug 1st, 2002, 10:47 PM

thanks!

jmardy · #13 (**permalink**) Aug 2nd, 2002, 02:12 AM

Bruce, here's one...
How much oil should be filled after the oil change?
I've looked and looked and can't find this most basic info?
4 quarts?
5 liters?
TIA
-John

MoMini · #14 (**permalink**) Aug 2nd, 2002, 08:07 AM

ezrally: the price of the spin-on adapter is $90.00 from MOSS.
jmardy: I believe an oil change requires 4.8 qt.

BruceK · #15 (**permalink**) Aug 2nd, 2002, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by jmardy
Bruce, here's one...
How much oil should be filled after the oil change?
I've looked and looked and can't find this most basic info?
4 quarts?
5 liters?
...

If my memory serves it is 4.75 US quarts. It is listed somewhere in the MINI Owner's manual.

According to the manual the standard Cooper and the Cooper S use exactly the same amount of oil during an oil change.

Some have guessed that is because the oil in Cooper S's standard oil cooler does not get changed out.