I am curious about the difference in oil filters.
I have several filters sitting on the shelf for a Sportster
I'm pretty sure that they can't be used on a twin cam or M8, something about a back flow valve?

 

If you think you're going to be riding for years/decades, get yourself a permanent filter. Simply take it off the bike, wash it out, and put it back on the bike. It looks like the S4 will fit pretty much most Harley's on THIS website. I've had one of these since I got my '09 FXD in '09. After that bike had 87,000+ miles put on it and it blew up on me (plus the damned thing was trouble from day one. I *KNEW* better than to get a computer controlled bike, but was curious. Meh). I took the filter off that bike (had it for about 5 or 6 years I think) and put it on the '98 FXD I got after selling the '09. Rode that for many years until I got T-boned on it. Took it of *that* bike and put it on my present '97 FLSTC. If I were smarter and any good at math, I'd bet I've saved myself several hundred dollars not having to buy throw-away filters. I change my oil religiously at 5000 miles.

 

I bet you strain your old oil and use it over too.

 

Ok...

 

😆

 

Thanks for sharing, I'm trying to gain some knowledge about the difference in these two filters,
I'm already happy with the filters on my M8 and TC

 

The filters were changed from 10 microns to 5 microns in the early 2000. Supposedly the 5 micron filter was engineered for the tolerances in the TC88. As far as the Sportsters Evolution motors they used a longer filter. The 80" engines used a 10 micron. This all from memory so I could be somewhat confused.

 

Thanks for sharing this information, appreciate you taking the time.

 

There are several filter properties that affect the engine manufacturer's choice.
1) physical fit
2) filter media and quantity.
3) bypass valve or not, and if present, pressure at which it opens.
4) back flow valve or not.

 

I tried an after market one once, it was a tiny hair longer and would not fit with oil cool adapter. I just couldn't get it to spin on. It was just a hair long. So make sure if you buy after market to check before buying a bunch.

I get everything has gotten stupid expensive, and I think about saving money too. But I guess I don't think about it until I need it, so I just buy another harley one.

As far as reusable, I worry that the holes are to big, if you can wash it. I am sure you can site plenty of example where it is just fine though.