oil filter cutter

[SteveU]

I would like to get a filter cutter & see that summit racing has 2 different models, the summit model for 39.95 & the tavia for 70.00. I did a search but didn't find anything on the summit model. Has anyone here used the summit cutter, if so is it worth the money or am I better off getting the tavia & being done with it?
Thanks,
Steve

 

[doubleclutch]

I purchased the Tavia model from Summit.. I didn't see the other cheaper model listed at the time or I may have ordered it. I tend to buy the higher end tools for everyday use and the lower end tools for occasional use. I would think either one would do just fine though.

 

[SteveU]

I just ordered the tavia partly because it had replacement cutters listed where the other model didn't. With the 6 or so filters I will be doing yearly it will be a while before they're needed but it is nice to know parts are available. I did the can opener thing, it works if you want to keep at it but I'd rather not spend 20+ min each filter.

 

[lindermant]

I have the Summit cutting tool (P/N 900510) and it works well:
http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=SUM-900510&N=115&autoview=sku

I'm going to cut open my 2nd filter this afternoon (neighbor gave me the factory fill filter from his '06 Accord)

 

[lukey]

I used an old can-opener.......the hand crank style.

Lukey

 

[jmacmaster]

Why buy a tool that's relatively expensive for the job it does and is only good for that job? I just put the filter in a vise and take a hacksaw to it.

 

[punisher]

I just use a chain type exhaust pipe cutter. Cinch it near the base and cut away.

 

[speedy341]

I have this...

http://www.longacreracing.com/catalog/item.asp?id=1043&catid=17

I used it three times and never used it again. I'll sell it to you for $35.

 

[SteveU]

I would think that using a hacksaw or abrasive cuttoff tool would contaminate the filter with metal shavings & abrasive grit to the point it would be hard to tell what came from the engine & what came from opening the filter. Not to mention that I have gouged myself with a screwdriver trying to pry open a filter I spent a long time with a can opener on. Reasons I would buy something made for this are 1. less chance of injury 2. peace of mind not seeing a bunch of crud in the filter that didn't come from the engine 3. time, the time I save can be spent doing other things 4. cost, averaged over the number of years I will use this (Lord willing) will be very low.

 

[John_E]

I have used the hacksaw-and-vise method with great results.

 

[Blue99]

I'm now in the habit of monitoring the condition of my used filters and cutting the drained filters apart with a Dremel and the thin style cut-off wheel.

Takes about 2 minutes, after some practice, to extend the cut entirely around the can. Since the filter is held on its' side, the cutting debris tends to stay in the residual oil film near the cut.

Normally I just wipe the chips & dust away at the cut end before I turn the can upright to inspect for particles in the bottom and in the filter pleats.

However, if for some reason a more detailed analysis is needed, I would certainly buy a good quality cutter. And then use it to split apart a full filter & pour the contents into a paper towel or coffee filter to capture everything in the dirty oil side of the can.