A cross reference guide helps you match an MTD oil filter with equivalent options from brands like Fram, Wix, NAPA, and others. This ensures proper fitment, correct oil flow, and reliable engine protection.
MTD Oil Filter Cross Reference
| MTD Part Number | Engine Type / Application | Fram Equivalent | Wix Equivalent | NAPA Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 951-12690 | MTD / Cub Cadet / Troy-Bilt | PH4967 | 51394 | 1395 | Very common small engine filter |
| 751-11501 | MTD OHV engines | PH4967 | 51394 | 1395 | Interchangeable with 951-12690 |
| 751-12690 | Cub Cadet tractors | PH4967 | 51394 | 1395 | Same filter family |
| 503P01156 | MTD engine series | PH4967 | 51394 | 1395 | Replaces older MTD filters |
| BS-696854 | Briggs & Stratton powered MTD engines | PH3614 / PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 / 7040 | OEM-style replacement |
| BS-492932 | Briggs & Stratton OHV engines | PH3614 | 57035 | 7035 | Very common lawn tractor filter |
| 795890 | Briggs & Stratton Intek engines | PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 | Heavy-duty small engine use |
| 792105 | Briggs & Stratton select engines | PH3614 | 57035 | 7035 | Standard replacement type |
| 727-0162 | MTD hydrostatic / transmission systems | PH16 | 51348 | 1348 | Older tractor systems |
| 12-050-01-S (Kohler) | Kohler-powered MTD equipment | PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 | Widely used Kohler filter |
| 12-050-08-S (Kohler) | Kohler Courage engines | PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 | Slight variation of same family |
| 12-050-01-S1 (Kohler) | Updated Kohler engines | PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 | Improved OEM version |
| 951-10298 | MTD lawn tractors | PH8170 | 57035 | 7035 | Common mid-size engine filter |
| 751-3241 | MTD / Yard Machines | PH4967 / PH3614 (varies) | 51394 / 57035 | 1395 / 7035 | Depends on engine configuration |
| 951-11348 | MTD riding mowers | PH3614 | 57035 | 7035 | Frequently used OEM replacement |
| 490-850-0005 | MTD replacement filter series | PH4967 | 51394 | 1395 | General replacement category |
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How MTD Oil Filter Cross Reference Works
MTD oil filters are often rebranded versions of filters made by larger manufacturers. That means one MTD part number may match several aftermarket filters.
Most commonly, equivalents come from:
- Fram (PH series)
- Wix (513xx series)
- NAPA Gold (1300–1400 series range)
- Purolator (L series equivalents)
Even though they are different brands, they are designed to meet the same specifications.
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Example: MTD 951-12690
This is one of the most widely used MTD oil filters.
It commonly matches:
- Fram PH4967
- Wix 51394
- NAPA 1395
These filters share:
- Similar thread size
- Matching gasket diameter
- Comparable oil flow capacity
Because of this, they are widely interchangeable in many MTD engines.
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Main Types of MTD Oil Filters
1. Standard Lawn Mower Filters
These are used in most residential riding mowers and small tractors.
Common part numbers:
- 951-12690
- 751-11501
2. Heavy-Duty Tractor Filters
Used in larger garden tractors and commercial-grade machines.
Common part numbers:
- 727-0162
- Various hydrostatic system filters
3. Briggs & Stratton Engine Filters
Many MTD machines use Briggs & Stratton engines, which have their own filter design standards.
Common part numbers:
- BS-696854
- Other Briggs-based OEM filters
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How to Choose the Correct Replacement Filter
To avoid mistakes when replacing an MTD oil filter:
Step 1: Identify the part number
Check:
- Old filter label
- Engine sticker
- Equipment manual
Step 2: Match using cross reference
Use equivalent filters from major brands such as Fram, Wix, or NAPA.
Step 3: Verify physical size
Make sure:
- Thread size matches
- Gasket fits properly
- Filter height has enough clearance
Reliable Replacement Filter Brands
When choosing a replacement, these brands are commonly trusted:
- Fram
- Wix
- NAPA Gold
- Purolator
These brands provide consistent filtration quality and reliable fitment for most MTD applications.
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Signs Your MTD Oil Filter Needs Replacement
You may need to replace your filter if you notice:
- Dirty or dark engine oil shortly after changes
- Reduced engine performance
- Engine overheating
- Unusual engine noise
- Oil pressure warning (if applicable)
Installation Tips
- Always replace the filter during oil changes
- Lightly lubricate the gasket before installation
- Hand-tighten only; avoid over-tightening
- Check for leaks after engine start
Why MTD Oil Filter Cross Reference Is Important
Oil filters are not universal. Even small differences in design can affect:
- Oil pressure control
- Engine lubrication
- Dirt and debris filtration
- Engine lifespan
MTD equipment often uses different engine suppliers such as Briggs & Stratton and Kohler, meaning filter part numbers can vary widely. A cross reference chart helps eliminate confusion when the original part number is unavailable.
FAQs
What oil filter fits MTD lawn mowers?
Most MTD mowers use filters such as 951-12690 or equivalents like Fram PH4967 and Wix 51394.
Are MTD oil filters interchangeable?
Yes, many are interchangeable if they share the same cross reference specifications.
Can I use Fram instead of an MTD oil filter?
Yes, as long as the Fram filter matches the correct MTD cross reference number.
How often should I change an MTD oil filter?
Typically every 50–100 operating hours or once per mowing season.
What happens if I use the wrong oil filter?
Using the wrong filter can reduce oil flow, cause poor lubrication, and potentially damage the engine.
Final Thoughts
MTD oil filter cross referencing is important because many MTD machines use engines from different manufacturers. This leads to multiple part numbers for similar filters.
The good news is that most MTD filters have direct equivalents in major aftermarket brands, making replacements easy once you know the correct match.
By using the cross reference table above, you can confidently find the right filter for your MTD engine without risking compatibility issues.
