oil filter wrenches and tools

[TomYoung]

I was changing the oil with a friend this weekend and he asked me to get an oil filter wrench. I have a number of different types of such tools, but it has been years since I used any of them. (this post is focused on spin-on canister filters) I had not thought of the reason for this, but it is as follows: 1. None of the tools work all that well. The straps slip, or the "sockets" are hard to get into position, and all of them work worse when they inevitably are exposed to oil. 2. Since most oil filters, and most mechanics, are recommending firm hand tightening, any tool is only required only to remove a filter that cannot be easily removed by hand. 3. I have multiple "ChannelLock" style slip offset pliers (there is probably a correct name for this tool) that will fit most any canister filter, and will do the job on any filter that is not welded in place.

So that's what I use. It's easy, quick, and the only conceivable downside is that you can sometimes mangle the filter that is getting removed. Am I missing something? Do y'all agree?

 

[Astro14]

That’s fine for a spin-on.

Utterly inappropriate for a cartridge housing.

 

[Danh]

Really depends on where the filter is located. My K24s have the filter tucked away in a spot where a firm hand grip isn’t possible. And even if accessible it can be hard to get the 3/4-1 turn after gasket contact without some leverage.

I use a cap-end wrench and choose my filters to fit it, not the other way around.

 

[CleanSump]

Back when I used the steel strap filter wrenches I would sometimes wrap a strip of sandpaper around the filter to stop slipping.

 

[PF52]

I use a tool made by Lisle which is sort of like an end cap wrench, but it has three spring-loaded "ears" that bite into the filter as you try to unscrew it; the tighter the filter the tighter the ears bite into the filter (you turn it with a 3/8" ratchet). I've never had it fail to remove a filter, and no, it doesn't damage the filter at all. It's a great tool.

 

[BHopkins]

I have never been a fan of the plier style oil filter removal tool. Like @Danh describes, I have rarely had engine bays where there is enough open real estate around the oil filter, to be able to position the handle of the wrench, let along swing it. So by far, this style of wrench is my least favorite. I have one in my toolbox, but it is only a last resort, and only if there is territory for it. The cap end wrenches work well, but you have to have the right size. Just one size too big, and they won't grip well enough.

If l need a to remove a stubborn filter that someone has muscled on, my first preference is the self-adjusting type that grabs the end of the filter. They grip a filter well enough to remove it, and they easily release the filter. But even these have their limited range of size filters that they will remove. You may have to have more than one, to remove different sizes of filters. If a filter is too stubborn, my second choice is the strap style. They are very effective, but admittedly, it can be tedious to hold the strap properly positioned around a bottom mounted filter, while trying to tension it up. Once cinched up tight, they work great.

 

[TomYoung]

I use a tool made by Lisle which is sort of like an end cap wrench, but it has three spring-loaded "ears" that bite into the filter as you try to unscrew it; the tighter the filter the tighter the ears bite into the filter (you turn it with a 3/8" ratchet). I've never had it fail to remove a filter, and no, it doesn't damage the filter at all. It's a great tool.

Those things are good, but still require some working room.

 

[TomYoung]

That’s fine for a spin-on.

Utterly inappropriate for a cartridge housing.

Generally, cartridge housings have the hexagonal wrench or socket indent designed in. The tool to use is obvious and effective!

 

[KGMtech]

Just about any wrap around or end cap tool will fit better if you sandwich a nitrile glove in between the filter and the tool. Grippy and skinny.

 

[BHopkins]

Those things are good, but still require some working room.

I'm not sure I follow.

The fingers only need about 3/8" clearance on each side, to grip the filter. The ratchet positioning can be adjusted if necessary, by using extensions, SOP for working on a car.

 

[TomYoung]

I'm not sure I follow.

The fingers only need about 3/8" clearance on each side, to grip the filter. The ratchet positioning can be adjusted if necessary, by using extensions, SOP for working on a car.

You need the space above the top of the filter. My comment was generic, its validity changing from car to car.

 

[Saturnguy]

Harbor Freight

https://www.harborfreight.com/locking-oil-filter-wrench-63696.html

 

[Urshurak776]

I prefer these (at least for my cars.) I think this is what the OP is referring to?

https://a.co/d/advJsle

 

[BHopkins]

You need the space above the top of the filter. My comment was generic, its validity changing from car to car.

Space above, or below, depending on if the filter is top mounted or bottom mounted, is rarely a problem. I've never seen an instance where the end can't be accessed. After all, you had to have been able to reach in and install the filter, with an arm attached to the hand that spins the filter on. Right?

 

[Dave P.]

I have multiple "ChannelLock" style slip offset pliers (there is probably a correct name for this tool) that will fit most any canister filter, and will do the job on any filter that is not welded in place.
I use the same thing for the Honda but only for removal because yes, it will dent the can depending on how much pressure is needed to loosen the filter.
For the Toyota cartridge filters, I use the specialized cap wrench with the alignment notches. Sometimes it is a nuisance to get all the notches properly lined up though. I guess if you're working on a lift with proper lighting, it's no problem at but laying on my back in the dark shadows, it's is a little challenging. I always wonder why they couldn't have developed the nylon cap and the cap end wrench with 6 or 8 evenly spaced notches so all it would take is a slight rotation until you feel the wrench fully seat and ready for action!

 

[Jay73]

I use this style...

https://www.autozone.com/shop-and-g...rench/153160_0_0?searchText=oil+filter+wrench

 

[slacktide_bitog]

For any oil filter I can't get off by hand, I use the hammer and screwdriver on

Of course, spin-on filters should only be tightened by hand, and don't forget to oil the gasket before installing. Cartridge filters get torqued to spec.

 

[SC Maintenance]

I have them all. I think it depends on the filter.

I also have filters in locations where you can't get them tight enough by hand,

Back when I used the steel strap filter wrenches I would sometimes wrap a strip of sandpaper around the filter to stop slipping.

^^ This.

Even a rag will help.

 

[HemiBenny]

I’ve not come across an oil filter that one of these 3 will not remove.
The strap style pictured has a rubber strip on the inside, it grips amazingly well. I’ve never had it slip while busting an oil filter loose. It worked well for removing the cap from the cartridge housing on my Sister-in-laws Mercedes GLK350 as well.

 

[TomYoung]

I prefer these (at least for my cars.) I think this is what the OP is referring to?

https://a.co/d/advJsle

Not exactly. This is tool i use.