The PLM A02 is a spin-on oil filter made by Fram, commonly found in older Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles from the 1960s through 1980s

The part number 15400 PLM A02 identifies a specific oil filter cartridge — the cylindrical component that traps dirt, metal particles, and sludge as oil circulates through your engine. Fram manufactured this filter for vehicles that used a particular filter housing design, mostly Mopar (Chrysler Corporation) products built during that era. If you own one of these older vehicles and need to replace the filter during an oil change, knowing the exact part number helps you order the correct replacement.

This filter is no longer in active production, which means you will need to search used parts suppliers, eBay, or specialty shops that stock vintage automotive components. New old stock (filters that were made decades ago but never installed) occasionally surfaces, though prices reflect their rarity. Reproduction filters designed to fit the same housing are also available from some aftermarket suppliers.

Key Takeaways

  • The PLM A02 is a Fram spin-on filter designed for Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles built between the 1960s and 1980s.
  • This filter is no longer manufactured, so you will need to search used parts dealers, online marketplaces, or specialty vintage auto suppliers to find one.
  • Before ordering, confirm the part number matches your vehicle's original filter housing to avoid buying an incompatible filter.
  • Modern replacement filters may be available for your vehicle's filter housing, even if the original PLM A02 is unavailable.

How to confirm this is the right filter for your vehicle

The best way to verify you need a PLM A02 is to check your vehicle's original documentation — the owner's manual or the filter housing itself. On many older vehicles, the filter housing has a label or casting mark that shows the compatible filter type. You can also look at the filter you are replacing; if it still has a label, the part number will be printed there.

If you cannot locate the original filter or documentation, contact a specialist shop that works on your specific make and model. Mopar clubs and forums dedicated to Chrysler vehicles often have members who can identify the correct filter by year, engine size, and model. Providing your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine displacement will help them point you to the right part.

Where to find a PLM A02 filter today

Since this filter has not been made for decades, your options are limited to used parts channels. eBay frequently lists vintage filters, though prices vary widely depending on condition and whether the filter has been opened. Specialty suppliers that focus on classic Mopar vehicles, such as Legendary Auto Interiors or similar restoration shops, sometimes stock or can source discontinued filters.

Junk yards that specialize in older vehicles may have filters still installed in donor vehicles. Calling ahead and describing what you need — including your vehicle's year and engine size — saves time. Some yards will remove and sell the filter separately, while others require you to purchase the entire filter housing assembly.

Modern alternatives if the PLM A02 is unavailable

If you cannot locate an original PLM A02, ask your mechanic or parts supplier whether a modern filter can be adapted to fit your vehicle's filter housing. Many classic car owners use contemporary filters with adapter kits or custom mounting solutions. This approach is often cheaper and more reliable than waiting to find a 50-year-old filter that may be clogged or damaged.

Some aftermarket manufacturers produce reproduction filters designed to fit vintage Mopar filter housings. These are manufactured to modern standards, so they filter more efficiently than an original filter would at this point in its life. Check product descriptions carefully to confirm the filter is designed for your specific housing type and engine.

What to do if you cannot find any filter for your housing

If neither an original PLM A02 nor a modern reproduction is available, you have two options: replace the entire filter housing with a modern one, or have a machine shop modify your existing housing to accept a standard modern filter. Replacing the housing is usually the simpler choice if you are comfortable with basic mechanical work. Many classic car restoration suppliers sell complete modern filter housings that bolt onto older engines.

Modifying an existing housing requires drilling, tapping, and sometimes welding — work best left to someone with machine shop experience. Before going this route, get a quote from a local shop and compare it to the cost of a new housing assembly. Often the housing replacement is faster and less expensive.

Storing and handling an old filter you find

If you locate a PLM A02 that has been sitting in storage for years, inspect it before installation. Look for rust, dents, or signs that the filter element inside has deteriorated. A filter that has been exposed to moisture may have a clogged or damaged element, which would restrict oil flow to your engine during operation.

Before installing any used filter, run your engine briefly with the old filter still in place, then stop and replace it. This warm-up cycle helps you spot any when ready leaks at the housing connection. After installation, check the oil level after 50 miles of driving to make sure the new filter is not leaking and the engine is not losing oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different Fram filter number if I cannot find the PLM A02?

Not without confirming compatibility first. Different Fram filter numbers are designed for different housing types and thread sizes. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks or prevent proper oil circulation. Contact a Mopar specialist or your vehicle's manufacturer to find approved alternatives for your specific engine and housing.

What if the filter I find is still sealed in its original box?

A sealed, unopened filter is generally safe to use if the box shows no signs of water damage or rust. Check the manufacturing date if visible — filters older than 20 years may have degraded filter media inside the box. If you are uncertain, open it and inspect the element before installation.

Is it worth the effort to find an original PLM A02, or should I just adapt a modern filter?

That depends on whether you are restoring the vehicle to original specifications or straightforward keeping it running. For a show car or museum piece, an original filter maintains authenticity. For a daily driver or project car, a modern filter with an adapter is usually more practical, cheaper, and performs better than a filter made 50 years ago.

Will using a modern filter void any warranty on my classic car?

Classic vehicles typically have no manufacturer warranty, so there is nothing to void. If you are working with a restoration shop or have a specialty insurance policy, check the terms to see whether they require original parts. Most policies do not, but it is worth confirming before you make changes.