MAHLE OC 978 vs LUBER-FINER PH2903: Oil Filter Compatibility

Compare MAHLE OC 978 and LUBER-FINER PH2903 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

SAFEMatch score: 91

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 LUBER-FINER PH2903 specifications

How matching is scored
Specification
MAHLE OC 978
LUBER-FINER PH2903
Thread sizeM20x1.5M20x1.5
Gasket OD70.8 mm72 mm
Gasket ID62.3 mm62 mm
Can OD75 mm75.18 mm
Height79.5 mm86.36 mm
Internal bypass valveYesYes
Bypass PSID1411 - 17
Anti-drainback valveYesYes

What matters in this specific comparison

Thread size matches: both are M20x1.5.

Gasket OD differs by 1.2 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 70.8 mm, LUBER-FINER PH2903: 72 mm).

Gasket ID differs by 0.3 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 62.3 mm, LUBER-FINER PH2903: 62 mm).

LUBER-FINER PH2903 is 6.9 mm taller (MAHLE OC 978: 79.5 mm, LUBER-FINER PH2903: 86.36 mm) -- check clearance before substituting.

Can OD differs by 0.2 mm (MAHLE OC 978: 75 mm, LUBER-FINER PH2903: 75.18 mm).

Both open their bypass valve in a comparable range: MAHLE OC 978 at 14-14 psi, LUBER-FINER PH2903 at 11-17 psi.

Open related filters

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