Champion has taken exception to our report comparing oil filters in the March 2013 issue and we’re giving the company space this month to offer a rejoinder. Recall that our article in the March issue concludes that we would have no problems installing either the Champion or the Tempest filters in any engine, but we think because it’s $5 cheaper, the Tempest is the better value.
Although Champion argues that the technical features of its filter give it the edge, we remain unconvinced and we’re standing by our conclusion in the March article. Four years ago, in a three-way analysis that included the now-defunct Kelly Aerospace oil filger, we gave Champion the nod. But in reviewing the filters again and on second consideration, we prefer Tempest’s magnet and bypass valve design. Obviously, Champion disagrees and their viewpoint follows.