WANTED: 58 AMERICAN OIL FILTER

We just completed a rebuild of a 58 American 196 flathead which came without an oil filter. We have read about using a contemporary aftermarket spin-on adapter to do a full-flow filter by modifying the (new) oil pump. We have read about original partial-flow setups, some up high on the engine and some down low. 

The oil filter plates show up on eBay from time to time. The actual filter, tubing and fittings would be local purchases. Maybe you'll get lucky and someone will have a complete set-up available.

the plumbing is plain old steel 3/16" flare tubing. you can use pre-formed brake line bent by hand if you're careful to bend the lines. 

I think the feed line is about one size smaller than return. Maybe 1/8 feed and 3/16 or 1/4 return. IIRC feed goes up the outside of the filter, return down the center.

The factory oil filter plate fits on the front left (driver's side) of the engine just above the generator. It sticks straight out the side, mounts on the two front left studs. You should be able to find photos with a google search. Scroll through the photos here: http://downtownmotorcarsales.com/amc/40983-1964-amc-rambler-330-2-door-sedan-6-cylinder-flat-head.html. It's a 64, but earlier are pretty much the same. The small line feeds from the oil gallery on the right side of the engine toward the front -- should be a plug there now. The return line goes to a plug on the left side near where the oil fill/stick goes in. The return line is larger than the feed. I think it's a 1/8" feed and 3/16" return, but may be a 1/4" return and 3/16" feed (or 1/4" return/1/8" feed). Whatever size nut fits the feed and return plugs.

The canister style is an aftermarket filter that was common in the 40s and early 50s. Oil filters weren't typically stock until after WWII (late 40s), and many didn't use them until engine redesigns in the 50s. Most were partial flow until the 50s redesigns.