Beware the rusting Oil Filter

[Descolada]

Some years ago I posted a comment here telling the story of how my Genuine Suzuki oil filter had rusted to the extent that it sprang a leak. It was only 6 months old at the time (the filter, not the bike). Well, its happening again. I did an oil and filter change prior to riding the NC500 just about a year ago and as of yesterday the paint has come off some of the oil filter and its rusting.

This time I will replace it before it pops.

Again, it's a genuine part from Suzuki.

So I just wanted to throw this out to the forum and warn about rusting oil filters. If you are using an original Suzuki part you may want to take a quick look and check on its condition. Especially if you are near the coast as I am. 

[roganjoshing]

Last time I changed oil the filter was almost rusted through - genuine Suzuki part.  I change oil about three times a year so it's not as if it had been on there forever.  Sadly, Suzuki build quality again.

[Descolada]

Any recommendations for an alternative, perhaps less prone to rusting (I.e. Non Suzuki)?

[kwackboy]

Unfortunately the position of the oil filter is the real problem and living by the coast also goes against you and an alternative oil filter isn't the answer as most oil filters are made pretty much the same way.
Options you have are a mudguard extender, a larger belly pan/bash plate or just simply give it a light covering of clear grease to protect it .
The filter is easy to get to and would take seconds to clean it ...

[Descolada]

Yep I actually smeared this one with grease after installing it, but the rain and road salt just washed it off. 

[kwackboy]

Just the once ?

[graingerblaze]

I have always fitted K&N oil filters to my bikes, never had them rust but I'm sure they can. I also use K&N because they incorporate a 13mm hex head on the end, so are very easy to replace  .

[Rusty Nuts]

There have been reports of that very nut causing issues with the weld introducing oxidisation.

[UK_Vstrom650]

I've used HiFlo filters in the past. I also have a mudguard extender and the plastic bellypan. I also spray the whole of the bike including the filter/underside regularly with ACF50 over winter.