Abstract: A filter assembly is provided having an oversized generally cylindrical housing defining a housing edge. A filtering element is disposed in the housing for filtering the fluid. A generally circular unitary tapping plate is also provided having a fluid inlet port, a fluid outlet port, and mounting means for removably mounting the filter assembly to the fluid circulation system. The unitary tapping plate further having a generally U-shaped portion defining a seal retaining groove and a wing portion extending radially outwardly from said U-shaped portion. The edge of the housing surrounds the tapping plate and is folded inwardly over the wing portion of the tapping plate such that a free end of the housing edge generally terminates in the seal retaining groove. The filter assembly also includes an external seal having a generally rectangular cross-section that is retained in the seal retaining groove.

Abstract: A filter assembly is provided having a housing defining a housing edge. A tapping plate is also provided and is generally circular in shape. The tapping plate defines a tapping plate edge and includes a fluid inlet port and a fluid outlet port. Preferably, the at least one fluid outlet port is a central threaded aperture to enable the filter assembly to be secured to a filter mount of an engine. An interconnecting device is included for interconnecting the housing and the tapping plate. The interconnecting device further retains an external seal generally about the tapping plate edge. The external seal is an economically formed lathe-cut gasket and the interconnecting device includes a first and second extension member. The first extension member is formed integrally with the tapping plate at the tapping plate edge. The second extension member is formed integrally with the housing at the housing edge.