1996 Bonneville non-supercharged 3.8. Walmart bought PF47E is clearly different- shorter and the top design is changed, looks and feels cheaper. I did a forum search, and about 3 years ago someone said he would not use that filter, but he never explained why. Should I not use it and look for a regular PF47 (on right in pic) or PF52 as suggested?

I ask my parts dept. the same question. They just redesigned the filter and when that happens part numbers change as well. Still the same filter for the same applications.

Well...as a long time GM owner, it always bugs me when they redesign oil filters I've been using for 10-20 years. The next generation always seem cheaper and flimsier. When it first happened, I thought I had gotten a counterfeit!
Would like to hear other opinions as well.

I run Napa Gold oil filters and a tall filters #1036 seem to do the trick for my 3.8 Pk Ave/ non supercharged.
Napa Gold Filters are made by Wix and are good filters.


I think Mike has a site identifying tall cross over listings.

Yeah he does, I have it saved on here, let me find it.

As for the redesign, if you don't like the looks of the redesigned one return it, and get one of the better quality longer filters, just avoid the FRAM ones, I heard they are crappy.

I have a Bosh one saved to my wish list for some reason, I am pretty sure it is one of the longer ones that Mike posted about before, I'd wait to hear back from him about it if you consider getting it.

Another filter that'* not listed, but I like to use is the STP S3980. It'* listed for the Chevrolet 4.3 V6'*, but will also fit the Series II 3800 engines in most applications. Only difference is the filter is longer, but might not clear the sub-frame on some models.

I use Mobil 1 filters

I have read really good things about the Mobil 1 filter; also heard it is the same internal parts as the K&N filter, just doesn't have the outside break nut welded to the outside of the case.

I only use 4.3L filters in my 3.8L Bonneville. I like the extra capacity of the filter, the factory 3,8l filter is very small. The 4.3L filter when used in a 3.8L bonneville extends about 1/2 past the oil pan, so it is subject to damage if is you run over something. I think that happening is very unlikely- but that is why GM uses the smaller filter in the 3.8l.

That is what I went with for my last oil change, I also use Mobil 1 Synthetic oil, good stuff!

i have come across some reasearch that says the E ones are walmart speced (walmart only delcos) cheap filters.