A fluid filter for filtering a circulating fluid includes an outer shell having a closed first end and opposite thereto an open second end which is defined by a peripheral edge. The outer shell further includes a surrounding sidewall which defines a hollow interior and a filter cartridge is positioned within the hollow interior. A nutplate is positioned in the open second end and is assembled to the outer shell with the peripheral edge of the outer shell being formed over a portion of the nutplate. A floating annular retainer is positioned adjacent the nutplate and in cooperation with the formed peripheral edge creates an annular receiving channel. An annular gasket is placed in the receiving channel and is sized such that there is a side-to-side compressive fit established between the annular gasket and the retainer and a similar compressive fit is established between the annular gasket and formed peripheral edge.