Wix 51515 Full-Flow Spin-On Oil Filter — 3/4"-16 Thread (17-2923-0)

The Wix 51515 is the standard-duty full-flow spin-on oil filter for VW air-cooled engines converted to full-flow oil filtration. It uses the standard 3/4"-16 thread, enhanced cellulose media, and an anti-drainback valve, and is a direct fit for full-flow conversion kits built around this widely cross-referenced filter size.

Fitment

• VW Air-Cooled (full-flow conversion): Fits Beetle, Bus, Karmann Ghia, Thing, and Type 3 engines set up for full-flow oil filtration (sump plate adapter or external mount)
• Universal: Any standard automotive application calling for Wix 51515 or equivalent

Why Choose Wix?

Wix has been making filtration products in North Carolina since 1939 and is one of the most widely cross-referenced filter brands in the automotive aftermarket. The 51515 is one of the most common 3/4"-16 spin-on filters made and is the default choice for VW air-cooled full-flow conversions.

Key Features & Benefits

• Full-Flow Filtration: Standard-duty filter for VW air-cooled engines converted to full-flow oil filtration.
• Enhanced Cellulose Media: Approximately 21 micron filtration.
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Helps keep oil in the filter for faster protection on start-up.
• Direct Fit: Works with full-flow conversion kits using this standard filter size.

Technical Specifications

• Wix Reference: 51515
• Thread Size: 3/4"-16 (standard automotive)
• Height: ~5.2 inches
• Media: Enhanced cellulose, ~21 micron filtration
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Yes
• Bypass Valve Setting: ~8-11 PSI
• EMPI Part #: 17-2923-0 (replaces previous EMPI part 17-2920-0)
• UPC: 707924590647

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a full-flow conversion to use this filter? Yes — the 51515 is for VW air-cooled engines converted to full-flow oil filtration via a sump plate adapter or external mount.
• What thread size is it? Standard 3/4"-16 automotive spin-on thread.
• Does it have an anti-drainback valve? Yes.
• What is the part number? Wix 51515, sold as EMPI 17-2923-0. It replaces the earlier EMPI part 17-2920-0.
• What does it filter to? Enhanced cellulose media rated at about 21 micron, with a bypass valve set around 8-11 psi.
• Will it fit a stock VW with no filter? Not by itself. A stock air-cooled VW only has a sump screen, so you need a full-flow conversion (sump plate adapter or external mount) first.

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