FRAM PH5796 vs MAHLE OC 978: Oil Filter Compatibility
Compare FRAM PH5796 and MAHLE OC 978 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
Both use a M20x1.5 thread.
- 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 PH5796 and MAHLE OC 978 specifications
How matching is scored| Specification | FRAM PH5796 | MAHLE OC 978 |
|---|---|---|
| Thread size | M20X1,5 | M20x1.5 |
| Gasket OD | 72 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Gasket ID | 62 mm | 62.3 mm |
| Can OD | 76 mm | 75 mm |
| Height | 90 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Internal bypass valve | Yes | Yes |
| Bypass PSID | 12 | 14 |
| Anti-drainback valve | Yes | Yes |
What matters in this specific comparison
Thread size matches: both are M20x1.5.
Gasket OD differs by 1.2 mm (FRAM PH5796: 72 mm, MAHLE OC 978: 70.8 mm).
Gasket ID differs by 0.3 mm (FRAM PH5796: 62 mm, MAHLE OC 978: 62.3 mm).
FRAM PH5796 is 10.5 mm taller (FRAM PH5796: 90 mm, MAHLE OC 978: 79.5 mm) -- check clearance before substituting.
Can OD differs by 1 mm (FRAM PH5796: 76 mm, MAHLE OC 978: 75 mm).
Both open their bypass valve in a comparable range: FRAM PH5796 at 12-12 psi, MAHLE OC 978 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.