I inherited a true to original restoration 1935 Ford Deluxe. Help me out here.

[rotorwrench]

I can't tell if its a 21 stud engine or not since that filter is blocking the view of the center lower head studs. Pump block off plates are a sign of 1937 or later blocks.

Filters were an add on accessory for the early V8s and they were a throw away item so they are not often seen mounted. The transmission tower appears to be correct for a 35. The early V8s didn't put out a lot of oil pressure at idle but they should have some at road speeds. If there is no filter in that canister then it may as well be removed. If it is cleaned out and a restrictor is in place then by all means put a filter element in it. It's a bypass system but they work OK to keep things cleaner.

My Pop had a 35 Standard Tudor during the war. He went from Minter Field in CA to Avon Park in FL in that old car.