Originally Posted By: y_p_w
Originally Posted By: Clevy
I've got the rubber ended lock jaw type and it's never let me down.
Tried that one when removing the filter on my parents' Nissan Rogue. I had plenty of access, but all I ended up doing was slightly scratching it because the can is maybe 2-5/8" in diameter. The universal claw wrenches have issues locking on to really tiny cans unless they're specifically designed for smaller filters.
I also have a hard time slipping that in when the filter is surrounded by stuff like the exhaust headers on my WRX. For my first oil change I bought a small-sized Lisle band wrench (can't find it now), but my filter was actually too small and there wasn't much room. I sort of got it off after many tries and a lot of slippage.
My first choice is a cap-style wrench if I can't get it off by hand, but failing that I've got a claw and a cam wrench.
For certain applications, a locking cam-style wrench will work better than any other type. It'll work if the flutes are damaged and there are few applications where there isn't adequate space. I've tried the claw in some tight areas, and there's no room to maneuver it.
Mine isn't the same as the one pictured above. And mine will fit on any size filter. It adjusts 3 different settings.
I've had the cap types,as soon as it slips once its bent and won't work anymore.
Before buying my plyer type I was the hammer and screwdriver method. Messy but effective.
