Wix 51085 Full-Flow Oil Filter — Spin-On, 3/4"-16 Thread, Alternate Size | VW Air-Cooled (17-3002-0)

Wix 51085 Spin-On Oil Filter — 3/4"-16 Thread, Alternate Size (17-3002-0)

The Wix 51085 is an alternate-fitment spin-on oil filter that uses the same 3/4"-16 thread as the 51515 but in a different can size — for full-flow conversions where the 51515 length doesn't clear bodywork or shrouding.

Vehicle Fitment

• VW Air-Cooled (full-flow conversion): Fits Beetle, Bus, Karmann Ghia, Thing, and Type 3 engines set up for full-flow oil filtration where the standard 51515 filter doesn't fit (tight-clearance situations)
• Universal: Any standard automotive application calling for Wix 51085 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.

Key Features & Benefits

• Alternate Can Size: Different can size than the 51515 for tight-clearance full-flow installations.
• Same Standard Thread: 3/4"-16 spin-on thread, interchangeable at the mount with the 51515.
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Keeps oil in the filter for faster protection on start-up.
• ~21 Micron Media: Standard filtration for street use.

Technical Specifications

• Wix Reference: 51085
• Thread Size: 3/4"-16 (standard automotive)
• Media: ~21 micron filtration
• Anti-Drainback Valve: Yes
• Bypass Valve Setting: ~8-11 PSI
• EMPI Part #: 17-3002-0 (replaces previous EMPI part 17-2922-0)
• UPC: 707924590654

When to use this vs the 51515

The Wix 51515 (our 17-2923-0) is the more common filter for VW air-cooled full-flow setups — buy that one if your installation has clearance for it. Choose this 51085 only if the standard filter's length is too tall for your conversion's clearance constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I choose the 51085 over the 51515? Choose the 51085 only if the standard 51515's length is too tall for your conversion's clearance constraints. Otherwise the 51515 (17-2923-0) is the more common choice.
• Does it use the same thread as the 51515? Yes — both use the standard 3/4"-16 automotive spin-on thread.
• Does it have an anti-drainback valve? Yes.

Explore Related Categories

Building or servicing your oiling system? Browse Oil & Cooling, Engine Parts, and more Wix Filters.