I just purchased a new/old 1976 Camaro, with a 400 ci motor. While changing the oil for the first time, I noticed that the threaded nipple, that the oil filter connects to, was loose & backed out in my hand. I've NEVER had this happen on an oil change. Is this piece,(the threaded nipple) supposed to have a lock ring on the top side, or maybe tapered? I don't see whats to stop the filter from backing out. I put teflon tape on one end & threaded it halfway into the block. Spun the filter on, & is not leaking at this time. Thanks for any info on this matter. I'm a newbie on this forum. Thanks for having me. Thanks, Jerry

That's interesting, I have not had a reason to look at mine. My 400 had this style of plate: http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=SES%2D3%2D60%2D08%2D900&N=700+4294908216+4294840135+4294889107+115&autoview=sku

IIRC, I replaced my bypass plate when I built the 383. If you have the style shown above, you should be able to remove the entire assemply next time you have the filter off & have a look. There are only 2 bolts holding it on...

Thanks Big Mouse..I've changed oil all my life, & never seen this..
I looked at the summit thread you listed, & will probably get this, & prevent any oil blowouts
Thanks..Jerry

I've seen that happen on non-Chevy stuff sometimes. Like the gas filter/water separator on my old boat (uses a canister filter similar to an oil filter) I could almost guarantee that the nipple would unscrew from the housing and come out with the filter. Can't say I have ever seen that happen with a factory oil filter adapter, though. I thought it was permanently affixed to the adapter, not just screwed into it. First time for everything, I guess.