Abstract: A filter includes filter media and a housing surrounding the media. The housing has an outlet and is sealed such that all fluid flow out of the outlet must first enter the cartridge and pass through the media. The housing has multiple inlet flow paths configured so that fluid impinging on the housing is diffused as it enters the cartridge and is prevented from flowing directly towards the filter media.

Abstract: A spin-on filter unit for filtering liquids which may be readily disassembled and which utilizes a perforated center tube support disposed within a housing canister having both an open end and a closed end, a mounting head assembly which includes a bayonet connector mechanism adapted for releasable engagement with the open end of the housing canister, and a spring mechanism mechanism which acts upon the center support tube to urge the mounting head assembly bayonet connection mechanism into releasable engagement with the open end of the housing canister after rotation of the mounting head assembly about its center axis relative to the housing canister.