2000cc Zetec Blowing Oil filter seal

[Yil]

I have a 1988 Super 7 with a Dunnell Engine 2.0L Zetec (1995), Ive owned the car for 20 years with major engine issues.
8 weeks ago I changed the oil and filter, 100m or so later the seal on the oil filter blew out and the engine lost its oil (warm engine). I put this down to a dodgy filter, replaced it and re filled with oil.
Then again 50-60 mile later with a warm engine the same thing happened......
What can cause this?
Too much oil pressure?, I read up and some say its a oil pressure release valve, I've spoken with engine builder who seem to doubt this.
Has anyone come accross this problem before?

[CaterBram]

I think you may have the wrong oil filter, A metric oil filter will fit and appear to tighten but will come off / leak when it gets warm.

I run a 1.8 Blacktop and use a Mahle Oil Filter OC606 -3/4"-16UNF

[Yil]

Really, I have bought 2 different makes of filter, same result, but never has this occurred in the last 20 oil changes. I guess could have both been the incorrect size. Didnt know I could get the size incorrect.

[anonymous-user]

This is what Fram say on the matter:

Vehicle manufacturers such as Chrysler, Mitsubishi, and Renault have applications listed in this catalog that utilize either a METRIC 20mm or a STANDARD 3/4-16 threaded filter mounting adapter (the threaded spud that holds the filter onto the engine).
It is very important that the oil filter adapter size be verified prior to the selection and installation of a replacement oil filter. Use of a METRIC threaded filter on the STANDARD threaded mounting adapter will result in loss of oil and possible engine damage.
To ensure that you select the correct replacement filter you must first determine the correct threaded adapter for your vehicle. Provided that you have a high-quality 3/4 inch open-end wrench with an accurate 3/4 inch opening, follow these simple steps:
1. Drain oil and remove the existing filter.
2. Using a high quality 3/4 inch open-end wrench try to slip the open
end of the wrench over the adapter threads.
3. If the 3/4” wrench fits around the threads your vehicle is equipped
with the STANDARD 3/4-16 filter adapter.
4. If the 3/4” wrench does not fit over the threads your vehicle is
equipped with a METRIC 20mm filter adapter.
The final responsibility of the oil filter selection and installation rests with the installer. If you are still unsure of the correct replacement filter for your vehicle consult your local dealer.

You could also use a vernier of course!

[CaterBram]

It has been a issue for years as in a Caterham install you don't actually use a ford filter as it's too long.

See the following from 2011 forum by a certain other manufacturer who uses zetecs..... https://forum.wscc.co.uk/forum/topic/88875-oil-fil...

[Yil]

I'm getting a Dunnell filter to see. Still can't understand why this would only happen now after 20years of oil changes.

[tight fart]

I use the Ford Cosworth filter on mine, it's bigger than the original one but fits and works.