Hello ML Drivers,

This question relates to a 1999 ML-320

Yesterday, I noticed that oil was linking from where the oil cap and engine come together.

At the time, I was thinking that this was due to a bad "O" ring. I went to Auto Zone and bought a new filter. The old filter was a STP S8481 and I bough a new one of the same exact model.

Upon removal of the old filter, I discovered that it was badly damaged. See attached pics.

What could have caused this damage as the filter floats freely on the "stick/rod" that goes through it?

Could someone tell me how many "O-rings" are needed on the oil filter rod. I count 4 but package comes with 5.

With replacement of a new oil filter, I'm now just waiting and hoping no more oil leaks.

Thanks to those offering any insight into this issue!

John

 

looks like when someone put on the filter they twisted it to get it on. dont worry about the 5th o ring thats for a different motorthat usesthe same filter.

 

Thanks for the reply. Do you really believe so? I find it hard to believe because as I mentioned "the filter floats freely on the "stick/rod" that goes through it?"

With this point in mind, what would be the use of creating a filter that is too long? If this were the case then of course the filter would crush when tightened.

Perhaps I'm missing something here?

 

well the filter shouldnt float too freely it should be snug and not slide very easily along the shaft. it should be tight so that when you pull it off or put a new filter on you need small amount of force to push or pull it. ive seen filters twisted like yours before.

 

Thanks Chassis 221! But what would you say? This isn't normal? What harm if any does it do to the engine?

 

probably no harm at all..because the filter is still there. maybe the last person to do the oil cahnge justdidnt put the filter all the way down to the top and whenit was tightened it hit the bottom of thefilter housing and twisted.