A high pressure spin-on filter is provided having a generally cylindrical filter housing with an open end and a closed end. A generally cylindrical filter element having a closed end and an open end is disposed within the housing. A multifunctional rigid cover is disposed in the open end of the housing and includes a circular rim member extending into the housing. The rim member has an axial bore extending through the rim member and defines an inner surface. The inner surface is partially threaded and further has a groove formed in the inner surface. A main seal is located in the groove of the rim member. The rigid cover further includes a circular hub member having an axial bore through the hub member concentric with the axial bore of the rim member. A plurality of ribs interconnect the rib member to the hub member and cooperate with the rib member and the hub member to define a plurality of openings between the rib member and the hub member. Structure is provided for mounting the cover to the filter housing. The threads and main seal permit threaded and sealing connection of the filter to a filter head assembly such that fluid is directed from the filter head assembly through the filter for filtering.