Fram 6017A cut open

Well as promised, recently I changed my oil and removed the above filter. The Fram had about 2900 US miles on it and to clarify some of the comments and accusations I agreed to cut it open (not bright am I?).

Anyway I used a dremel-type tool with a diamond bit to cut through the outer case. Pictures below:



Before picture of filter.



Picture of case cut. Much thicker than I expected. Not sure the photo shows that however.



All pieces shown.



Base of filter.



Filter end and filter.

My thoughts? I am not sure what the end pieces are made of but it appears to be a fiber material of some sort coated with a synthetic (plastic?) material. Cardboard? Perhaps, but there was absolutely no sign of separation in this case, I did try and peel it back by hand and didn't have any luck. Probably could have removed it with tools.

The filter itself appeared in good shape and I didn't see any chunks on it so all must have been OK!!! No tears in the element etc.

In summary, I would use a Fram filter without reservations. Like any filter I would NOT exceed the manufacturer mileage specifications. Currently I have a Honda OEM on my SWing but again I would not worry about using a Fram. My Honda OEM cost me 10 bucks while O'Reilly's has the Fram for 5.99.

This is subjective; if you truly feel Fram makes a bad filter don't USE one! And as an aside I am sure that a bad filter can be gotten from any manufacturer at some point. Kind of like oil filter roulette. Hope this information is helpful!