I'm changing the oil/filter on my 496 today and I don't have the Mercury filter (it's an hour drive to a Merc dealer). I do have a couple other Mercury filters here and I was wondering if I could use one of them instead. They are a Mercury High-Efficiency part#35-858004K (for Horizon engines) and a Mercury Racing part#35-16595T 1.
Would either of these work? Do they have the anti-drain valve in them for mounting vertically?
Thanks for your help.

At Raylar we use and like the WIX 51060R wix racing filter on the 496, readily available at any Napa store and a hell of a lot less money for a great filter thats as god as anything Mercruy has made for them. Save your dollars for more expensive needs.

Best Regards,
Ray @ Raylar

Would like to try a WIX filter, but there are no NAPA's in my neck of the woods. Are they available at other places?
Thanks.

yes auto value,bumper to bumper

Don't have any up here. I could take a drive across the border to Seattle area (maybe for the next oil change). In the meantime I think I'll try the Merc Racing filter since it's just sitting here unused. Just not sure about the anti-drain when mounted vertically.

ac delco pf-454