What's the Difference Between the Fram C-3 and C-4 Oil Filters

[TWChamp]

I tried to Google the answer, but couldn't find anything.
It seems I see both listed as fitting in the 1950 Commanders, but there must be a difference.
I just changed oil and filter today and mine had a C-4.

[wayne]

They are different sizes.

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

C3 is 3-27/32” outer diameter, C4 is 4-5/16” outer diameter.

[unclemiltie]

The canisters are also different sizes. You normally see C4 on commander engines and V8 engines and the C3 on Champion engines but as dealers often installed these they often used what was on the shelf

[TWChamp]

OK, thanks. I figured size might be the only difference, but wanted to be sure it would be OK to use the C3 in the larger canister if need be.
Looks like I just spent more money on some C4's than I needed to, as I could have bought a bunch of C3's for half the price.

[StudeRich]

Using a Shorter and smaller Diameter Element in a Larger Canister, may cause the Oil to Bi-Pass the Filter.

Your Filter is a Fram F4, your Element is a C4.

[jackb]

"F" = Fram/Filter ..... "C" = Cartridge ????? maybe...?

[TWChamp]

Yesterday I bought 12 Fram C4's for $100 on ebay. Seems strange AutoZone has the C3 but not the C4.

[rkapteyn]

http://www.oilfilter-crossreference.com/convert/Fram/C4

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

Probably the most available Fram C4 filter element available today is the Fram C4P...the P merely meaning a “paper” type folded filter element.

[rockne10]

I stopped buying Fram filters some time ago. They have cheapened them greatly. If you can find the equivalent in a Mann filter you are good to go.