The present invention involves a filter element assembly (10), which is useful in removing undissolved adhesive bodies from oil. The assembly includes at least one cylindrical body 11 of principal filter medium for removing particulates from oil. Body 11 has an inlet end and an outlet end. A secondary filter medium 20 for removing undissolved adhesive bodies from the oil is located around the sides and across the inlet end of the principle medium (11). A flow affording spacer 926) is disposed between the sides and the inlet end of the principal medium (11). A preferred spacer (26) is a non-woven expandible mesh present in a partially expanded state and having elements (27,28) grouped in first and second sets in which the elements (27) in the first set are laid atop the elements (28) in the second set. A readily cleanable containment vessel (39) for the filter element assembly (10) includes a tubular body (41) which is releasably connectible in liquid tight relation to a bottom cover (44) for the body (41).