Oil Filter Tree
The Oil Filter Tree or Oil Filter Bracket is a bracket mounted to the side of the engine block, which provides a vertical mounting point for the oil filter. On the TT model, it also contains a fitting to supply oil to the Oil Cooler
Differences
There are two versions of the oil filter tree: Turbo and Non-Turbo. Here are the differences between the two:
- Dimensionally different, the TT tree is longer.
- The TT oil filter tree has bypass valves where the oil filter mounts. The NA tree does not (NA bypass valves are in the cylinder block).
- The TT oil filter tree has a fitting to supply oil to the oil cooler. This is done with a pressure relief spring, which Nissan says opens at approximately 2000 RPM.
Maintenance
While oil filter trees do not go bad, they have two seals that do. The main gasket is a paper-type gasket that goes between the tree and block, p/n 15239-89E01.
In addition, there is an internal O-ring on the oil filter tree, which creates a seal where the port on the block enters the inside of the oil filter tree. This is often overlooked, but should always be replaced when the oil filter tree is removed. This is p/n 21311-V0700. As they age, they shrink and get brittle, and when this seal fails, the oil pressure sending unit will read low, and oil will not be forced through the oil filter.
Oil Cooler Bypass
If installing an aftermarket, full-flow oil cooler in a TT, you may wish to block the port on the oil filter tree completely. This can be done with an M14x1.5 bolt, approximately 0.5" in length.
