Fram TG3985 filters found
 

In Marc Haibecks 1997 and 2006 articles on oil filters he came to the conclusion that the Fram TG3985 filter was the best performing oil filter based on both filtration and more importantly the quality of the check valve. This to prevent loss of oil from the filter and shorten oil pressure build up on start up. The articles can be found here.

http://www.zr1specialist.com/HAT%20W...es%20index.htm

(not to be confused with the PH3985 and the HM3985, both of which also fit our cars)

In 2005 he wrote that the TG3985 was no longer available from Fram, at least in the Chicago area. Many of us found that to be true all over the country.

While looking on-line today I found that PepBoys, of all places, listed the TG3985. Assuming this is the same TG3985, I went down to my local PepBoys and sure enough they had 2 in stock. I bought both. I'm going to install one on my car today and see how it performs. I have not been happy with the Bosch 3401 on the car now, although I suspect it's just the particular one that's on there now. Previous ones have been fine.

So if your looking for a TG3985, check out your local PepBoys, they may just have it.
H
:cheers:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Hans,

What is it about the 3401 that would have you looking for another filter?

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Fram TG3985 is available at OReilly Auto Parts also.
http://shop.oreillyauto.com/ProductD...Type=1&PTSet=A

this link has all the applications for that filter
http://www.oilfiltersonline.com/prod...em_code=TG3985

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Hans,

have you noticed that every once in awhile you get a 3401 that doesn't hold oil as well as some of the others? Also that the time to build oil pressure varies from one filter to the next?
:dontknow: I thought that it could have been my imagination :o

:cheers:
Tom

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

That's exactly why I started looking into this. I was getting intermittant episodes of what I considered excessive time to build oil pressure on start up, both hot and cold. Not to mention the ensuing clatter. I only drove the car briefly yesterday, so no conclusions yet.
H
:cheers:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Same here ... seems that there is a "slight" inconsistency from filter to filter.

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

:o....does anyone remember maybe two yrs ago the M1 M207 filters had these very symptoms? A lot of us switched to the 3401's at that time....I maybe off on the time frame, but I remember these symptoms from a batch of the new black vs gray M207's...or was it just the gray ones?

I'm thinking quality control issues at the plant?

Why does it seem to much to ask that parts just work like they are supposed to work? I must be getting short of patience the older I become?:dontknow:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

I just picked up two of the Fram TG3985 filters at the local Pep-Boys. They didn't have any more there but when I was talking to the counter guy he claimed there were 19 more in their warehouse in Indiana. He asked me if I wanted to order any more.

I didn't, but it sounds like there are a bunch out there!

:cheers:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

It sure is an ugly looking filter :jawdrop:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

True... Black krinkle top with a light gray body :thumbsdo:. I suppose you could always paint it black.
H
:cheers:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Well... it's been a week. I have to say there is a noticable difference. I don't have nearly the start up clatter and in particular the slow oil pressure build up when hot.

Based on my experience at least, to date, I would have to say the Fram TG3985 is superior in this regard. Glad I bought 2 right away. May have to stock up.

It just appears that the quality control on the Bosch is not up to snuff.
H
:cheers:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Thanks for the info Hans. We can add Rock Auto as a confirmed source for the TG3985 as well.

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

I make the billet covers for the oil filters so that would take care of the ugly looking filter :hello:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

I must have good luck with Bosch filters, because neither the one I took off or the new one I installed it about a month ago caused clatter in the chains. I put one of rgfllamas repro AC Delco decals on it and its looking good!!

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Poser :sign10:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Poser? Me or the filter?

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Using an AC sticker on a Bosch filter :icon_scra What do you think. Lighten up as I did put the laughing icon on. It's all good :handshak:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Cool! We're good. :handshak: I thought thats what you meant. Love your Black '95 Z. I had a Black Beige '95 Z a few years ago...wish it I had it back.

The AC decal that rfgllamas makes gives the filter more of an OEM look under the hood, and the Bosch decal peels right off.

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

I'd like to get my hands on a few of those stickers for my bosch filters.

Contact info?

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

Thanks, I really like my Black 95 but mine has the grey and sure would have loved the beige instead. :hello:

Re: Fram TG3985 filters found
 

His name is Ken Lindgren, he is rgfllamas here on the forum. You can do a member lookup and PM him. Nice guy, easy transaction and great repro decal. Hope this helps!!