I have a 1981 300 SD, and I changed my oil, and then went to change my oil filter with one that I had bought from an auto parts store using their selection book, but the oil filter is around 2-3"s longer than the oil canister. Thinking it was a fluke, I went to a different place, and purchased a different brand (STP) but it was still the same thing as the one that doesn't fit. I haven't seen this question covered before, and was wondering if anyone could shed some light on the subject?? Thanks

Not much coverage on this topic because most folks here buy respected brands of oil filters which aren't available at the typical auto parts store.

Check the FastLane link at the top of the page and compare prices with otherwise generic filters. I don't think there's much of a savings. Plus they fit.

ps. I don't mean to sound condescending.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

Yeah i'm not really concerned about the difference in pricing, the issue for me is just getting one that fits. I took your advice and checked out Fastlane, however the filters pictured resemble (size & look) like the ones I've purchased previously. The size of the oil filter currently in the car is only about the length of the metal section of the filters I bought. Thanks for the help

*flash* There was a thread on this a little while ago.

It seems part of the old filter remained in the canister. See if this is what happened to you.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD