filter cartridge 10 is inserted into the filter basket 32 until it bottoms and then the height is adjusted to a desired level by threading the cartridge top 14 and thereby the entire supporting structure for example to where the cartridge top 14 periphery seals against a corresponding section of the filter basket top 34 the extension bottom 24 protrusion s keyed with the filter basket one skilled in the art will appreciate that a filter cartridge according to the appended claims enables design and manufacture of filter cartridges for use in a range of different filter housings and or filter baskets the adjustable height nature of the invention ensures that the bottom and or sidewall bottom interconnection is supported by the filter basket bottom reducing the strength requirements of the external support structure and in particular improving resistance against damage from hydraulic shock because the invention eliminates the need for manufacture inventory and delivery of a significant number of different filter cartridge models manufacturing and operating costs are significantly reduced where in the foregoing description reference has been made to ratios integers materials components or modules having known equivalents then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth while the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the embodiments thereof and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit.