A fuel filter cartridge includes a housing having first and second shell sections. The shell sections are generally symmetric about a cartridge axis and joined together. The first shell section has a convex-shape when viewed from a side and includes an end portion, a cylindrical side wall portion, and a transition portion connecting the side wall portion to the end portion. The end portion has an end surface forming a cartridge opening coaxial with the cartridge axis. The transition portion has a radius of 0.125-1.125 inches. A filter having at least one filter element is disposed within the housing.