Long Lasting FL-1A
This is an interesting filter. Basically, it appeared to be a Purolator Pure One filter cartridge in a Purolator Premium Plus case. Don't be fooled by the differently shaped holes cut into the oil inlet. This is the only difference. I have, however, seen that the Motorcraft line tends to change manufacturers. For a while they seemed to be Champion Labs filters, then they went back to Purolators. I also received some information from a Ford technician that the filters that come on the vehicles from the factory are not the same as those that are available to the dealerships.
Like the Purolator Pure One, this filter cartridge features a very large element surface area (400 sqin), but with many pleats (64). This packs the filter together rather tightly and could possibly restrict flow somewhat. I believe could identify the Pure One element media by a purple dye they use at the seam and by the texture. It also has the mysterious assembly string wrapped around the outside of the element. Like the Purolators, it features a spring-loaded metal bypass valve and a nitrile rubber diaphram-type anti-drainback valve. The bypass valve is stamped right into the bottom end cap of the cartridge, so it is all one piece.
