Wix 51515R Racing Oil Filter — Spin-On, 3/4"-16 Thread | Built VW Performance (17-2924-0)

Wix 51515R Racing Spin-On Oil Filter — 3/4"-16 Thread (17-2924-0)

The Wix 51515R is the racing-grade version of the 51515 oil filter. It keeps the same 3/4"-16 thread but adds significantly more filter media area and a stiffer construction designed to withstand the pressure spikes of high-RPM race engines. The "R" suffix is Wix's standard nomenclature for performance/racing variants.

Vehicle Fitment

• VW Air-Cooled (full-flow conversion): Built/race engines — fits Beetle, Bus, Karmann Ghia, Thing, and Type 3 engines set up for full-flow oil filtration, where the extra media area and racing-grade construction earn their keep
• Universal: Any application calling for Wix 51515R or equivalent

Why Choose Wix?

Wix has been making filtration products in North Carolina since 1939. The 51515R is the racing-spec sibling of one of the most common 3/4"-16 spin-on filters made.

Key Features & Benefits

• Racing-Grade Construction: Stiffer build to handle the pressure spikes of high-RPM race engines.
• More Media Area: Significantly more filter media than the standard 51515.
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Keeps oil in the filter for faster protection on start-up.
• Drop-In Upgrade: Direct upgrade from the standard 51515 (17-2923-0) when the engine sees track time or sustained high RPM.

Technical Specifications

• Wix Reference: 51515R (Racing)
• Thread Size: 3/4"-16 (standard automotive)
• Height: ~5.17 inches
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Yes
• Bypass Valve Setting: ~8-11 PSI
• EMPI Part #: 17-2924-0 (replaces previous EMPI part 17-2921-0)
• UPC: 707924590630

Standard vs Racing

If you're filtering a stock or mild street engine, the standard 51515 (17-2923-0) is correct and saves $12. If you're filtering a built engine that spends time at sustained high RPM or sees real track use, the 51515R's extra media area and stiffer construction are worth the upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How is the 51515R different from the standard 51515? The 51515R has significantly more filter media area and a stiffer, racing-grade construction to handle high-RPM pressure spikes.
• Do I need the racing filter for a stock engine? No — for a stock or mild street engine the standard 51515 (17-2923-0) is correct. Choose the 51515R for built engines seeing sustained high RPM or track use.
• What thread size is it? Standard 3/4"-16 automotive spin-on thread.

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