FRAM PH4731 vs MAHLE OC 581: Oil Filter Compatibility

Compare FRAM PH4731 and MAHLE OC 581 oil filters by compatibility, dimensions, thread size, gasket fit, bypass valve, anti-drainback valve status, and match confidence. Use this comparison as a fitment review, not as an automatic substitution guarantee. Both use a M20x1.5 thread.

Quick verdict

COMPATIBLEMatch score: 88

Closest known dimensional difference: height -20 mm. Verify application-specific requirements before substituting.

  • Thread size is the first hard-fit check for any comparison of spin-on filters.
  • Gasket OD and gasket ID are the most important seal-related dimensions.
  • Height differences can matter for clearance even when thread and gasket fit appear close.
  • Bypass and anti-drainback differences may be important, depending on the application.

FRAM PH4731 and MAHLE OC 581 specifications

How matching is scored
Specification
FRAM PH4731
MAHLE OC 581
Thread sizeM20X1,5M20x1.5
Gasket OD72 mm71 mm
Gasket ID62 mm62.5 mm
Can OD76 mm80 mm
Height120 mm100 mm
Internal bypass valveYesYes
Bypass PSID1214
Anti-drainback valveYesYes

What matters in this specific comparison

Thread size matches: both are M20x1.5.

Gasket OD differs by 1 mm (FRAM PH4731: 72 mm, MAHLE OC 581: 71 mm).

Gasket ID differs by 0.5 mm (FRAM PH4731: 62 mm, MAHLE OC 581: 62.5 mm).

FRAM PH4731 is 20 mm taller (FRAM PH4731: 120 mm, MAHLE OC 581: 100 mm) -- check clearance before substituting.

Can OD differs by 4 mm (FRAM PH4731: 76 mm, MAHLE OC 581: 80 mm).

Both open their bypass valve in a comparable range: FRAM PH4731 at 12-12 psi, MAHLE OC 581 at 14-14 psi -- these ranges do not overlap.

Open related filters

Before substituting, verify thread fit, gasket sealing dimensions, height clearance, bypass behavior, and anti-drainback requirements for your specific application.

PH4731 vs OC 581 Oil Filter Comparison | Filter-Match