I have the WIX filter 51289 for a 1987 Mercedes 300D. Recent concern in the diesel car community has a few of us wanting some information.
The upper portion of this WIX filter is packed full of what appears to be bulk cotton with twigs, leaves and dead insects (cotton gin waste.)

Is there any specific reason for using this material as filter media? It would seem to be very ineffective as such. By the way, I also understand the oil circulation in the Mercedes engine and that some of the oil is routed back to the oil pan.

The lower pleated portion seems like other factory filters.

Does WIX manufacture any filter for this application that does not use cotton gin waste?

When they respond, I'll post it..

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1987 300D (230,000 mi on a #14 head-watching the temp gauge and keeping the ghost in the machine)
Raleigh NC - Home of deep fried sushi!