Cheap oil filter cutters?

[irv]

I recently did 2 oil/filter changes on my vehicles and would like to inspect the filters, especially the CARQUEST Premium that was on my truck, but since I don't have the proper cutting tool, does anyone know if these can be purchased cheaply somewhere, especially up here in Canada, or should I just go ahead and use a hacksaw or grinder with a cutting disk?

I'd prefer the proper cutting tool but I also don't think cutting open filters frequently is something I will be doing, so with that being said, what would you use, a hacksaw or mini grinder?

 

[E150GT]

A grinder would work but it’s pretty grim with a hacksaw.

 

[53' Stude]

Originally Posted By: irv
I recently did 2 oil/filter changes on my vehicles and would like to inspect the filters, especially the CARQUEST Premium that was on my truck, but since I don't have the proper cutting tool, does anyone know if these can be purchased cheaply somewhere, especially up here in Canada, or should I just go ahead and use a hacksaw or grinder with a cutting disk?

I'd prefer the proper cutting tool but I also don't think cutting open filters frequently is something I will be doing, so with that being said, what would you use, a hacksaw or mini grinder?


I got my Longacre on amazon on sale for $40~

 

[RooflessVW]

I have a big set of tin snips I use to cut the crimp off of the baseplate.

 

[Jooksing]

What i did - using tin snips.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFXYN5ZN9S8&t=1s

if your filters are smaller than 2 1/2" Dia HF
https://www.harborfreight.com/no-2-pipe-cutter-62243.html

I bought an old craftsman pipe tool the other day that I will post goes to 3" Dia

 

[AZjeff]

If you have a flap disc on a grinder you can go around and around the crimp on the end until the seam shows up then you just pop it apart. Pull the gasket off first. It's really easy and clean.

 

[SZR48207]

 

[ZZman]

If you might rarely use a actually filter cutter, using a Dremel tool with cutting egeel might work well.

I got a reasonably priced cutter from Summit. Summit Racing

 

[Jooksing]

Originally Posted By: AZjeff
If you have a flap disc on a grinder you can go around and around the crimp on the end until the seam shows up then you just pop it apart. Pull the gasket off first. It's really easy and clean.
Originally Posted By: ZZman
If you might rarely use a actually filter cutter, using a Dremel tool with cutting egeel might work well.

I got a reasonably priced cutter from Summit. Summit Racing

I thought the use of abrasives may add particles, either directly or from handling.

 

[2009Edge]

Made this from an old drill press vice.

 

[vwalburn]

Hacksaw worked great for me. Reddy45 has a great looking tool, though!

 

[SubieRubyRoo]

I'm not into lookin at other dudes' tools.

The Longacre cutter looks pretty sweet.

 

[ZZman]

Originally Posted By: Jooksing

I thought the use of abrasives may add particles, either directly or from handling.


I suppose it could. But most people seem to enjoy looking at the construction and possible pleat issues instead of any metal particles.

 

[Oldtom]

A belt sander will neatly open a filter by sanding away the crimp. Plug the center hole with a paper towel to keep particulates out of the filter. Lastly, be careful since you will be using your fingers not mine

 

[BlueOvalFitter]

Is there a HARBOR FREIGHT near you? Or, go to an auto parts store and buy a tail pipe/muffler cutter. I bought the cheap WM brand Dremel tool and it works great.

 

[CR94]

Originally Posted By: E150GT
A grinder would work but it’s pretty grim with a hacksaw.
In my experience, using a hacksaw is slow, but not particularly "grim." I didn't try to cut all the way through all the way around, but just mostly through, then forced it open by striking the seam. That way, very few if any metal particles from the saw contaminate the media. Cartridge filters have eliminated this tedious chore.

 

[irv]

Originally Posted By: Reddy45

Originally Posted By: 2009Edge
Made this from an old drill press vice.



Some great ideas/tips/info in here guys. Thanks.

I never thought of an exhaust cutter so I may look into one of those, especially if they go on sale?
http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/oem-tailpipe-cutter-box-1250057p.1250057.html

Imo, a cutter would be far better due to less mess/hazards so that's likely the route I'll go.

No HF up here and of course, purchasing and shipping from the states can get spendy!

Thanks again.

 

[CrAlt]

I have the one that is sold under the JEGS brand. It does a good job.
https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS-Performance-Products/555/80532/10002/-1

Speedway Motor's sells it also under their own brand. Both their EBAY store's say they ship to Canada.

 

[ZeeOSix]

Originally Posted By: CrAlt
I have the one that is sold under the JEGS brand. It does a good job.
https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS-Performance-Products/555/80532/10002/-1

Speedway Motor's sells it also under their own brand. Both their EBAY store's say they ship to Canada.


I've got the same one, but doesn't work well on smaller filters. The wheels are too small and too far apart, so the small filters won't ride on the wheels, but hit between the wheels instead.

 

[CrAlt]

OK good to know thanks.

I rescind my recommendation