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I had switched from Wix 51515R to Baldwin B2 about 10 years ago on the advice of a racing friend. After my wreck, we found that the oil filter pushed out about an inch length of gasket on the third pass. After removing the filter, Jerry pointed out the thickness of the sealing ring, and it looked pretty thick.
However, comparing to the Wix, it was the same thickness. Then I looked closely at the gasket while turning, and it had a few places a good bit lower than the norm. I don't know that these photos show it well, but to the eye you will notice about 4 low spots.
I have no problem believing that Baldwin was the tits 15-20 years ago, but for all I know they're now made in China or India. I'm not sure if it is the rubber gasket that is faulty, or the metal end piece it is glued to is wavy. Regardless, a $10 filter will cost me 5-digits to fix the car.
However, comparing to the Wix, it was the same thickness. Then I looked closely at the gasket while turning, and it had a few places a good bit lower than the norm. I don't know that these photos show it well, but to the eye you will notice about 4 low spots.
I have no problem believing that Baldwin was the tits 15-20 years ago, but for all I know they're now made in China or India. I'm not sure if it is the rubber gasket that is faulty, or the metal end piece it is glued to is wavy. Regardless, a $10 filter will cost me 5-digits to fix the car.