Cutting oil filters - what's your method

[Errtt]

I'm going to start cutting open my used filters.
I have:
Pneumatic (air) high speed cutter
Dremel w/loads of accessories including stacks of cutting wheels
Hacksaw
Hammers & chisels ( I hope not this route)

What are the preferred methods? I'm tossed between the high speed cutter and Dremel right now - and is there other methods that's not coming to mind at the moment?

 

[PontiacFan]

Hacksaw is old school, then again that is what I do, try the High Speed Cutter, just make sure you wear some safety goggles.

 

[Sayjac]

Search is your friend, give it shot and I'll bet you find lots of info on the topic.

Not trying to be condescending, just helpful.

 

[barlowc]

I use my hacksaw. It takes a little longer, but really isn't too bad. Take your time, do it carefully, and it comes apart nicely. Here's a couple that I've hacked open:

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/denso-150-1010-cut-open-pictures.129559/

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/pureone-pl14610-cut-open-pictures.142428/

 

[dparm]

Dremel should be fine, just have a supply of cutting wheels. Some of the more expensive filters are thicker, of course. I'm betting you could do it with a table saw if set properly.

 

[meangreen01]

Dremel with the black cut-off wheels make quick work of it. I've got a very large Rigid pipe cutter laying around somewhere I keep thinking to dig out to try but seem to just grab the Dremel anyway.

 

[ZeeOSix]

If you want to cut it open without contaminating the inside, then an actual filter cutter tool or exhaust pipe cutter is the only way to go.

 

[flatlandtacoma]

Tubing cutter or pipe cutter.

 

[Sayjac]

Here's a couple threads (with pics) on the topic which include my choices.

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/posts/2007743/
https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/posts/2007743/

 

[Errtt]

After following a couple links, I realized I have an exhaust cutter, never used, yet. Just went in the garage and found it. Looks like it will work real nice from what I can see. I had forgot I had it. Has 4 cutting wheels. I see no reason why it wouldn't work.
I'm tempting to cut a new filter, but will hold back for when I change the oil and filters for a couple motorcycles in a few months.
If for some reason it doesn't work smoothly, I'll go to plan B or C, whatever it happens to be at the time.

Thanks all

 

[Jakegday]

a dremel with the reinforced cutting wheel

 

[mechanicx]

I use the exhuast pipe cutter method. I was just thinking tin snips would make a clean cut but you would need a starter hole and I'm not sure if the snips would cut around the circular can or not.

 

[Herz]

electricians hacksaw