Donaldson ELF Problem/Advice

[billmac]

Recently I installed a Donaldson ELF lube filter on my 2002 Dodge Cummins turbo diesel pickup. First time use for this filter. The filter instructions indicated to tighten the filter 1 turn after it contacted the filter mounting base. I was only able to hand tighten the filter 3/4 qtr turn. I'm debating on whether I should leave the filter as is or tighten it the remaining quarter turn using a filter wrench. I haven't started my truck since I replaced the filter. My concern is that if I use the filter wrench will I be able to get the filter off when I need to. I did liberally oil the filter O ring prior to installation. I would appreciate some advice. Note - previously I used Fleetguard Stratapore and Amsoil Superduty filters on the truck and was able to hand tighten both filters per instructions, Thanks.

 

[Doug Hillary]

Hi Bill,

you need to turn the filter as indicated
The seal on the ELF filters is very robust and durable as they are expected to remain in place for some time. You will need tighten it further with a wrench and you will need to use a wrench to remove it

When we commenced using these filters some years ago we also undertightened them, with weepage as the end result!

Kind regards
Doug

 

[theguru]

Maybe see how it goes at the current torque by observing for leaks. Tighten if necessasry. Sometimes with the heat the seal shrinks slightly and they require just a bit extra tightening. Generally they will only weep as Doug said, so nothing major.

A suggestion. Unscrew the filter and retighten. You shouln't loose any oil.

I put a Baldwin on one of my cars this time round. Its seal was thicker than the Purolator Premium Plus I had on there previously. The PPP required 3/4 of a turn, whilst the Baldwin required 1 turn. So far the BW is doing fine, the PPP did weep a bit. I found that they needed more than the 3/4 turn.

I assume you oiled the seal first. This can make a difference.

 

[billmac]

Mr. Hillary and theguru, thank you for your replies.

Doug, as always, I appreciate your expertise.

I used my Sears rubber strap wrench and was able to tighten the filter the additional quarter turn without any damage to the filter. It will be interesting to see how difficult this filter will be to remove when the time comes. Of course with the vibration of the Cummins engine I'm sure it will loosen some.