A fluid filter system has a manifold having a fluid inlet with an inlet stop and a fluid outlet with an outlet stop and a cartridge seat. A cartridge is separable from the manifold and adapted to mount and dismount in the manifold. The cartridge has a filter housing containing a filter for filtering fluid, and an integral closure member having a first level and a second level. A radial inlet port is on a face of the first level of the closure member and an axial outlet port is on top of the second level of the closure member. A first boss on the closure member opens the inlet stop when the cartridge is mounted in the manifold. A second boss on the closure member is disposed to open the outlet stop when the cartridge is mounted in the manifold. The bosses engage the stops sequentially.