My '06 has 110,000 miles on it. When I have changed the oil and filter in the past the oil filter was always full to the top when I removed it. I have now noticed with the last 3 or 4 oil changes that the filter is only about 1/3 to 1/2 full of oil. The oil level on the dipstick is always at full.
Why would the oil filter not be full anymore? Anyone ever notice this when changing the filter?
BTW, I only use stratapore filters.

 

My 06 has 120k on it now and I've had the opposite problem. Normally I can unscrew the filter without it spilling and dump it (usually pretty full). Last 2 times I've changed my oil, when I break the filter loose it's been pouring oil out and making a mess.

 

To help prevent that oily mess when changing the filter I slip a plastic bag up around the filter....thus capturing the over spill.....HTH

Jim

 

It depends on how long it sits prior to changing, under 3 or 4 hours and it will spill.

 

It's normal for it not to be full if it sits a while.

 

I always drain my oil and change the filter when the oil is still warm, it is full.

 

Well, with the last few oil changes I have waited until the engine is very cool so maybe it's just draining more. I like changing the oil when it's cool because it comes out a little slower and doesn't splatter everywhere.

Thanks, guys.

 

My filters are as you describe Moparnut, nothing to worry about.

 

Anyone care to explain how the oil drains UP and out of the filter? It would make more sense if the filter was mounted horizontally, but vertically?

 

Siphon effect

 

I agree. I always pop the oil pan plug and try to find something else to do for an hour or more to let it siphon out some of the oil in the filter so it won't run down my arm when I spin it off.
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This method of letting it sit for a while before removing the oil filter has been suggested by many others. It works for me.
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I tried the ZipLock gallon bag trick and went so far as to buy one of the Filtergloves that Geno's Garage sells ---> http://www.genosgarage.com/FILTERGLO.../#.UpaGNOYo5aQ
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Still I think the let it sit for a while works the best.

 

Fleetguard filters do not have CK valves therefor drain back

 

Same here. Pull the drain plug when its hot than after an hour the filter is cool enough to handle and doesn't have as much oil in it.