What Is the Difference Between PF48 and PF48E? Choosing the Better Oil Filter

When it comes to producing efficient engine oil filters, ACDelco has always been one of the top brands. Since the launch of a new variation of the classic PF48, users have been debating whether the PF48E is a better choice over PF48. To settle the debate, let’s find out all the difference between PF48 and PF48E.

Let’s dive in and find out what distinguishes the PF48E from the PF48 oil filter and which one you should pick.

What Are the Differences Between PF48 and PF48E Oil Filters?

Many features and capabilities of the two oil filters are the same. Yet, the performance and durability of the PF48 and PF48E are very different due to their construction and added technologies. Here are the differences between the two ACDelco oil filters:

Now, let’s compare each side in more detail.

Construction and Collapse Strength

• PF48: While both filters use the same filter media, end caps, and sealing gaskets, it’s the filter cage that makes all the difference. 

The PF48 has a metal cage (stainless steel) for added strength and durability. As it’s been the standard oil filter for years, users rely on it for long-lasting performance.

• PF48E: Instead of steel, the PF48E features a nylon cage. The purpose of this replacement is to make the filter eco-friendly. Although many users were quick to call it ‘flimsy plastic,’ the nylon cores are expected to be 1.5 times stronger than the old metal cores.

Thanks to the perfectly round shape of the core, the collapse strength of the PF48E is 25% higher than that of the PF48.

Susceptibility to Extreme Temperature and Rust 

• PF48: From the filter caps to the cage, almost all the parts of the PF48 are metal. Therefore, it’s more susceptible to rust and corrosion than the PF48.

Although metal construction withstands more extreme temperatures, they work as excellent conductors. Therefore, if the PF48 overheats, it will cause more damage to the oil. 

• PF48E: Only the filter cage of the PF48E has a nylon core, which is not susceptible to rust. Moreover, it’s been redesigned to increase the filer’s resilience against water accumulation. 

Nylon is a thermoplastic that doesn’t conduct heat and withstands extreme temperatures. Therefore, it can offer better protection for your engine oil in unfavorable conditions.

Relief Valve Design

• PF48: Another key difference between the two valves is the relief valve design, location, and operation. The PF48 features a spring-loaded ball valve located in the filter cap.

As the oil pressure rises over the standard level, the ball valve lifts and sends the unfiltered oil back to the engine. This way, the relief valve protects the engine from damage if the filter becomes clogged.

• PF48E: The redesigned relief valve of the PF48E features a compression spring-loaded nylon poppet valve integrated into the filter’s base.

From what I’ve seen so far, this design offers statistically more stable relief valve performance compared to the ball valve in the PF48. 

Therefore, it offers more consistent opening pressure and reduces the risk of premature bypass activation. While the PF48’s relief valves work great, the new ones on the PF48E deliver overall better performance and leakage protection.

Filtration Area and Performance

• PF48: The filter cage, filter media, and seals of the PF48 oil filter are held in place with high-quality thermosetting adhesives. While they maintain the structural integrity of the filter, the adhesives reduce the filtration area.

On top of that, they can end up restricting the oil flow when the adhesives deteriorate over time.

• PF48E: With the elimination of the adhesive seals for the filter media, the PF48E has an increased surface area for filtration. Therefore, it can be more efficient in capturing contaminants from oil.

The elimination of the adhesives and infusion of high-tech thermal bonds might also minimize pressure drops across the filter. It also enhances hot oil durability, so the PF48E will perform better at higher engine temperatures. 

However, if you judge the filters based on their overall performance, the filtering capacity of PF48 and PF48E remains unchanged. Both filters have the same micron rating (up to 30 microns) and filtering efficiency (98%).

Availability and Workability

• PF48: From traditional oils or synthetic and blended ones, PF48 works great with all types of motor oils. Its reinforced metal construction allows it to deliver great performance under stress. Hence, PF48 filters are more suitable for heavy-duty vehicles and carrying heavy loads.

The PF48 is compatible with 99% of vehicles, including passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. However, ACDelco discontinued the production of PF48 for some time, so it might not always be available as GM Original Parts on your vehicle.

• PF48E: While the PF48E filters are workable with all types of oils, they work best with synthetic oils manufactured for more modern vehicles. With its strong core and redesigned relief valve.

Therefore, the PF48E is a good pick for everyday driving. The filter is compatible with 98% of all vehicles. Nowadays, it’s easier to find and comes as the OE filter on many modern cars.

Multi-Pass Filtering and Maintenance Schedule

• PF48: The PF48 is marked as a single-pass filter by the manufacturer. This means that the oil flows through the filter media only once before reaching the engine. 

This is probably because the PF48’s bypass valve is located in the filter cap. The key benefit here is that you don’t have to replace the PF48 as frequently as the PF48E.

• PF48E: As it’s a multi-pass filter, the oil flows through the filter media multiple times before reaching the engine. This way, the PF48E might be more efficient in capturing debris.

Unlike the PF48, the PF48E’s bypass valve is located in the filter base. However, the downside is that you need to change the filter more often.

Cost of Purchase

• PF48: Due to their higher production costs, PF48 filters are generally more expensive than their Ecore counterparts. PF48 filters are slightly larger and heavier.

However, the exact cost will vary based on the availability of the part. It’s available within the price range of $6 to $19.

• PF48E: As the nylon core is recyclable, lightweight, and easy to source, the PF48E will cost you a few dollars less than the PF48.

Again, there might be a slight difference in the prices, ranging from $4.79 to $17, depending on where you’re purchasing the part from.

FAQs

In this section, we’ll address some common queries regarding the differences, features, and uses of the PF48 and PF48E oil filters.