We have been meaning to post this comparison for a while now. Wayne's recent experience with our filter on MeanMini reminded me to get this article up.
There are several dedicated turbo filters to choose from.
Here's a breakdown of a few of the most popular:
Turbonetics
Turbo Oil Filter Part Number 20754
It can be purchased for around $34. + shipping directly from Turbonetics.
The Good
It comes free with every Turbonetics turbo purchase.
While no filter Micron size is advertised it appears that it would do a very good job at restricting even the smallest of particles.
The Bad
It's small and only meant to reduce the possibility of a warranty claim during Turbonetics one year warranty period.
Continued use after a year can lead to restriction of oil flow to the bearings and subsequent turbo failure.
Screw in oil inlet of turbo. More difficult to maintenance or replace due to location.
Earl's
Blue In Line -4AN Filter Part number 230304
The Good
Will protect turbo from particles .14 mm or larger (aka Better then no filter at all)
In-Line filter simple to maintenance
-4AN ends for simple installation
Inexpensive $32. + shipping at Summit
The Bad
Tiny round filtering disc that will allow smaller debris to pass through potentially damaging bearings. Will quickly clog due to the small filtering area.
Turbos Unleashed
In-Line Turbo Oil Filter
The Good
60 Micron Filter cartridge is Pleated for increased filtering surface area.
Can easily be removed and cleaned for routine maintenance.
New Filter cartridges are available and can easily be changed.
-4AN ends for quick removal and installation.
The Bad
A little pricier then the others coming in at $65
Here are a few photos comparing the filtering surface areas
We generally keep these in stock and they can be a real turbo saver with Engine Failures.
Chris-TU