The factory filter for the REPLACEMENT ELEMENT oil filter unit is the P-70FF. Attached is the oil filter interchange list from KFOCI HANDBOOK that was based on the AC filter interchange book that went out to GM dealers and independent garages/gas stations. It shows the WIX numbers are 51070 or 51071 and the NAPA number is 1070 or 1071 and is supplied by the OEM unit of Wix to NAPA. From what's been stated in this situation, a prior owner got something and make it work rather than get the right filter. The right filter in the right canister should easily come out and the new filter easily go in.
When your 1953 Dragon was built, the oil filter unit installed on the car during production was the Type 1/2 which is a sealed canister that cannot be opened; you tossed the entire unit (removing the oil lines at the filter, of course) and installed a new canister unit. Problem is that it's been almost 40 years since the last ones were produced and they are extremely hard to find (read $$$$$$). It is considered "legal" to replace the 1/2's with the P70FF unit per a letter to K-F dealers dated May 10, 1950 for 1951 Kaisers and is considered an accessory item. Subsequent letters from Kaiser-Frazer Sales Corporation indicated the swap was factory ok for 1952, 1953 and 1954-55 model year Kaisers with the 226.
The cross-reference guide will be in Version 6.0 of KFOCI HANDBOOK when it becomes available on the club website to members receiving publications.
