> I have pics of the can filter split open, did that when I replaced it
> on my syncro.
>
> see here:
>

   I cut open my oil filters when I change em.  The Racer Supply places sell
'filter cutters' that work almost like a can opener on a cannister type oil
filter.  You just put it on the filter and spin the filter around a few
rotations as you tighten up a knob...and the flange of the filter and all
it's element come right out of the body of the cannister.  You can see any
traces of metal on the paper of your filter 'innards' giving you advance
warning of wearing bearings, rings, whatever...

  Well worth doing.  I let a friend with a 928 use it once at the track and
we found some bronze on his filter.  Stock 928s have a penchant for failing
at the #2/6 main bearing.  He quit for that race and put his car on the
trailer and when he tore down the motor later that week, he found his
bearing was within a RCH of dissintegrating completely, which would have
totally wrecked the motor...He put in some new mains and ran again the next
weekend for about $100 bucks worth of parts...

  I just cut open the oil filters even on my Vanagon...as an easy way to
spot prob