Abstract: A method of making an elongated filter system including the steps of forming an elongated alignment rod, an attachment device, a tubular filter element and a yoke, followed by the steps of attaching the elongated alignment rod to the attachment device and positioning the tubular filter element, upon and about the elongated alignment rod then securing the yoke so that an outer peripheral area of the yoke is in sealing engagement with the tubular filter element.

Abstract: An elongated filter system is provided which comprises an elongated filter alignment structure, a filter attachment structure and an elongated filter. The elongated filter attachment structure is removably attached to the filter alignment structure. The elongated filter alignment structure has a structure on one end to secure the elongated filter thereupon in fluid communication with a fluid passageway disposed in the filter attachment structure. The filter attachment structure for attaching the elongated filter comprises a yoke having an outer peripheral area in sealing engagement with the filter. The elongated filter alignment structure may comprise a central rod attached to a central opening in the filter attachment structure and may further have an elongated apertured center tube assembly disposed upon the rod.

Abstract: A replaceable element fluid filter is provided that has a rigid apertured center tube which is attached to a fluid outlet. The center tube is formed of a plurality of sections that fit together to achieve the desired overall length. A rod of selectable length is received within the center tube to retain the center tube in rigid position in communication with a fluid outlet. Once the center tube assembly is secured to the fluid outlet, a tubular filter element is replaceably secured around the center tube. By incorporating a rigid center tube, the tubular filter element can be constructed so that it does not require a self contained supporting structure. By varying the number of sections of the center tube and the length of the rod, tubular filter elements of various lengths may be employed.

Abstract: An improved fluid filter is provided that has a rigid apertured center tube which is attached to a fluid outlet. Once the center tube assembly is secured to the fluid outlet, a tubular filter element is replaceably secured around the center tube. By incorporating a rigid center tube, the tubular filter element can be constructed so that it does not require a self contained supporting structure. Thus, by eliminating an integral supporting structure, the filter element can be made solely of combustable materials, aiding in the disposal of used filter elements.

Abstract: A filter having improved means of positive shutoff employs a rigid tubular fuel pervious core surrounded by flexible filter media that intercepts and resists the passage of particulate matter and water. A tubular retention sleeve is positioned within and in closed communication with the tubular core at one end thereof, the retention sleeve having an integral ball retention portion of reduced internal diameter. An end cap is secured to the other end of the tubular core member and has an annular sealing surface surrounding a flow passageway opening therethrough. A ball is normally positioned within the retention sleeve and in the engagement with the circumferential ball retention seat. When the flexible filter media has absorbed a sufficient quantity of water the pressure differential across the ball forces it to pass through the retention seat and to lodge against the sealing surface of the end cap, thereby closing further flow through the filter.