> Here's a copy of a previous list msg about it.  Summary - don't use FLAPS
> filters if you want to be safe.

> "Thank you for your interest in KNECHT products.
> "The main difference between OC 108 and OC 47 is inside these filters. OC
> 108 has an anti-dran valve at the filter, OC 47 not. When you use
> OC 47 for
> your car (VW Tranporter/Vanagon) than you can get problems, when you start
> your car. The motor is at this time alwys to long without oil. OC 108 have
> also a better paper quality than OC 47, and the pressure bypass is
> different. Please use for your car OC 108, to get no damage at your car or
> motor.

> Now for some background.  The e-mail is verbetim -spelling error and bad
> english et el.  Obviously, Sandra's English is not the best, but you can
> all undertand what she is trying to say. (Besides, who am I to criticize
> somebody's English!!)  The OEM filters on VW's are either Mann/Bosch or
> Mahle/Knecht.  VW Dealers usually carry Mann (same as Bosch) while most
> foreign autoparts stores carry Knecht (same as Mahle) if you ask for OEM
> filters.

Just a correction/clarification here, to remind you that here in the U.S.,
the Bosch is NOT the same as the Mann, and is NOT an original-equipment
filter.  In the U.S. Bosch is simply re-branding a generic U.S. made oil
filter, not a Mann, under their name. Both Mann and Mahle/Knecht have the
anti-drain valve and are O.E. quality, so you want to stick with either of
these brands.  I variously stock both, and in fact right now have both in
stock for the same price ($4.29, min purchase 4).

- Ron Salmon
 The Bus Depot
 http://www.busdepot.com