Thank you. Yes, I did read your post and noticed the bit about draining out being somewhat normal. I was wondering more about the specifics of the 3FE setup since the filter is vertical and the pump is down in the sump. When I start it, it does take 2-3 seconds for pressure to register on the gauge. I'm not positive if that's normal or I have a time bomb on my hands.
No, I'd say there is really nothing to worry about. There are dozens of vehicles (including Ferrari) that have used the same set up over the years (vertical/inverted) oil filter. I think it is wise of you to choose (as you have) a quality anti-drainback oil filter. It is to be expected that some amount of oil will eventually weep past the seal if the vehicle is not started (oil circulated) within a few days.
But I think the notion that you actually experience a 'dry start' from this is largely 'myth'. Except for valve guides pretty much all the bearings (Crank, Cam, Rods) are oriented in a horizontal position and they will retain at least a 'film' on their surfaces. So the idea that you have two metal components literally contacting each other DRY....I think is a misnomer (if the engine hasn't been sitting for years).
Just the same...we want to get oil circulating (under pressure) as quickly as possible because the components (crank, cams, rods, rings) DO exert mechanical pressure against one another and it is ONLY the thin layer of oil (non compressible) that prevents metal on metal wear.
I just get a little frustrated when I do hours of research and conclude that WIX filters are some of the best (and not cheap either), only to get shot down immediately for buying the "wrong" filter.
Yes, I tend to agree. We have certain folks who consider it sacrilege to use anything but Toyota products on a Toyota vehicle. Generally speaking....I endorse using Toyota/Denso replacement parts...but 'filters' don't fall into that category. Despite what others may profess....'Toyota' is not the Holy Grail of all things automotive.
I can't speak directly about the 3FE...since I don't have one. But the 1FZ FE (at least mine) actually builds oil pressure almost immediately upon engine start, even though the factory gauge does NOT indicate that. I recently installed a digital oil pressure gauge (while retaining the factory gauge) and installed a highly sensitive transducer type sensor. When I start my vehicle (cold start) I see almost immediate feedback from the Digital (within 1/2 second). The factory/dash gauge doesn't move for 3-4 seconds sometimes.
All in all....I'd say you have nothing to worry about and that what you are experiencing is in fact quite 'normal'.
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