Oil flow direction question

[mixelpix]

Does the oil flow:
1) from the bolt through the filter, or
2) does the oil drain through two holes in the bottom of the case and get pulled into the filter and up through the bolt?

I am assuming it's getting pumped back into the crankcase through the bolt - and that the outer surface area of the filter the 'dirty' side?

Either way, I found some Rotella at the local Kragen and plan on doing a series of oil changes in the very near future (new bike and I already put 1000 more miles on it the day I bought it...) Part of the reason I ask is that I have some really powerful magnets from computer hard drives, some of which would fit really snugly into the oil filter. Was just thinking it might be one way to pick up any ferous metal bits while I am going through several oil washes. 'Course, correct me if I'm wrong here, but isn't it more likely that there would be non-ferrous metal bits - say, from a worn tensioner?

Thanks!

[John]

According to Clymers, the oil flow comes from the pump, through the outer area of the filter, then through the bolt, and on to the rest of the engine. The bolt also contains the oil filter by pass valve.

[randy]

mixelpix

Parts n More has magnetic drain plugs for like $5. The engine sump and the middle gear are the same size. These are good for everyday ferrous particles, but I like your idea of a rare earth magnet in the filter housing.

Auto transmissions have had those for years, stuck to the inside of the drain pan.

There's not much room inside the housing, though. If you come up with a suitably sized one, let us know. It would be quick smart insurance.

And, at every oil change it's a good way to discover problems before they get too far gone.

You're right that in your case there may be more non-ferrous bits than ferrous, but the moving parts are ferrous.

In the case of bearings, when they start to disintegrate, because they are composite, you'll see chunky/flaky bits that are silvery and copper.

When you check the magnet, it's perfectly normal for there to be a gooey mix of fine , almost powdery ferrous particles stuck to it. Dark grey / black is normal. Chunks that are coppery (bearing material) is bad.

[bkr]

Magnets

Hey Randy Got a 2 in. + 2in. magnet in the mail from ING Inc. ( advertising tool ) thin as a CD disc . Would work fine in a filter housing. Just a thought. Frig magnet may be ok too. bkr