MAHLE OC 978 vs FRAM PH4887: Oil Filter Compatibility

Compare MAHLE OC 978 and FRAM PH4887 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

RISKY

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.

MAHLE OC 978 and FRAM PH4887 specifications

How matching is scored
Specification
MAHLE OC 978
FRAM PH4887
Thread sizeM20x1.5M20X1,5
Gasket OD70.8 mm71 mm
Gasket ID62.3 mm62 mm
Can OD75 mm68 mm
Height79.5 mm100 mm
Internal bypass valveYesYes
Bypass PSID1412
Anti-drainback valveYesYes

What matters in this specific comparison

Thread size matches: both are M20x1.5.

Gasket OD differs by 0.2 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 70.8 mm, FRAM PH4887: 71 mm).

Gasket ID differs by 0.3 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 62.3 mm, FRAM PH4887: 62 mm).

FRAM PH4887 is 20.5 mm taller (MAHLE OC 978: 79.5 mm, FRAM PH4887: 100 mm) -- check clearance before substituting.

Can OD differs by 7 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 75 mm, FRAM PH4887: 68 mm).

Both open their bypass valve in a comparable range: MAHLE OC 978 at 14-14 psi, FRAM PH4887 at 12-12 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.

OC 978 vs PH4887 Oil Filter Comparison | Filter-Match