oil filters no longer dealership monopoly

[Chilledboost]

the filters are different between the 2.0 and 2.3 from what i have seen working at the dealership
-------------------Mazda Part Number-----Ford Number---Motorcraft Number
2.3L = Cartrage:---L321-14-302------------N/A------------FL-2017B
2.0L = Spin-On :---LF10-14-302-9U--------EFL-910--------FL-910
(there may be a 9a after the L321 part, ill check monday)
im providing these numbers for cross-refrence info

 

[TheMAN]

thanks captain obvious, we didn't know that already

 

[davegutz]

Advantage of shield

The only negative I can think of to not having the shield installed would be that the bottom of the engine and transmission would get dirtier. That's not a concern of mine as I power wash the engine compartments and undersides of my vehicles once a year.

This "shield" also doesn't offer much in the way of protection. Several owners in the colder climates have reported problems with them cracking and falling off. Most of the underside of the engine is pretty well protected without the flimsy piece of plastic. Next time you're under the car, take a look at the guard around the A/C pulley. I hate to think of the kind of damage a piece like that would take before it fails! (eek2)

I recall a class in engineering school where the prof said the biggest opportunity in aero drag is underneath the car. For a certain amount of effort, such as a cheap (too cheap?) shield the marginal improvement in drag is worth the effort whereas a large amount of effort topside, such as an expensive wing, you get just a similar marginal improvement.

I expect that the shield improves fuel economy slightly.