ASAP spin on converter for CAV filter - easy to install?

[Burnham Bob]

I'm tempted to convert my CAV to spin on using the ASAP converter that fits the CAV head without replacing the pipe work. However, having managed to master replacing CAV filters and the glass bowl without air or diesel leaks (although next time I do it sod's law says it will leak) if the conversion is difficult to fit I might as well stay with the current filter and save over a hundred drinks tokens.

Any advice?

 

[ghostlymoron]

It depends on how easily accessible your filter is. If it's inaccessible, it makes changing the cav filter tricky and prone to leakage so a spin on converter is a very good idea. If you can sit on a stool with the filter right in front of you, changing the element is no problem so stick with the standard unit.

 

[Bongo]

I like being able to see if water is present in the glass bowl...wouldn't you lose that with the conversion. ?Agree it's a chore with the CAV unit, I undo the bolt, and drop everything into a plastic bag..less mess.

 

[pcatterall]

I like being able to see if water is present in the glass bowl...wouldn't you lose that with the conversion. ?Agree it's a chore with the CAV unit, I undo the bolt, and drop everything into a plastic bag..less mess.

Aren't the best ideas simple? I have messed around trying to hold or support bowls and other containers in awkward places under my filters ( spilling the lot sometimes!) A good plastic bag could be tied around the filter and your hands could work inside. I will ensure that I have some suitable bags in my spares/repairs kit. Thanks!

 

[colind3782]

Have a look at the "Filter Drip Tray" thread further down. Would seem to have it covered.

 

[pcatterall]

Have a look at the "Filter Drip Tray" thread further down. Would seem to have it covered.

Yes, some good ideas there but I would have difficulty getting even the smallest example in place. I will check it out but the bag may be the best solution for me.

 

[philwebb]

Hi Bob, I changed my CAV filter last year. There was always a small leak. I got a Fiat Ducato box van filter head from an outfit called autopartjungle on EBay. I think it was around £40 for the head and the spin-on filter. Cheaper than the conversion flange! The top inlets and outlets are identical to the glass bowl version. The filter is dearer than the 296 version, but hey, no drips in the back locker!

 

[vyv_cox]

I changed to the ASAP spin-on filter on the motor sailer because I anticipated lots of debris in the tank and wanted to be able to change quickly. On our trip from Milford Haven to Menai Strait the filter blocked three times but it was the work of a few seconds to replace them. You do lose the glass bowl but I have never found that particularly useful and once had one break on me. I have now also replaced the old glass bowl one in the Sadler for a spin-on type, as it has always been a difficult job to change filters with it located in the shaft tunnel.

Answering the question - yes, a very easy job and all the original fittings transfer over.

 

[PetiteFleur]

I also have replaced my CAV unit with the spin on version. I got mine from SSL Diesel in Scotland, cheaper than ASAP, direct replacement and available in UNF and Metric threads. https://www.ssldieselparts.co.uk/filter-assembly-sfa11-p-718.html The screw on filters also a reasonable price. Filter replacement is so much easier with little fuel loss - I jam a container underneath to catch any fuel.