Oil Filter Wrenches-Probably Revisted

[KCDoug]

Not finding what I'm looking for on search through this or oil thread, so I'll try posting.

Has anyone found a good band-style oil filter wrench that can get a good grip on the tiny filters found on late model Hondas, Nissans, etc? I bought as small as I can find at O'Reileys, etc., but none of them grip well. I've also tried the cup style that fits the end of the filter and attaches to your socket wrench - but they slip on filters that on tight. I'd prefer something that doesn't damage the filter b/c I also like to use it to tighten the filter a quarter turn or so after a good hand-tigtening.

Thanks,
-Doug

 

[Tosh]

You could try a piece of course sand paper between the filter and the band type wrench.

 

[mechtech]

Tighten your filter [oiled gasket] 3/4 turn after contact.

 

[TomH]

quote:

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Originally posted by KCDoug:
I'd prefer something that doesn't damage the filter b/c I also like to use it to tighten the filter a quarter turn or so after a good hand-tigtening.

Thanks,
-Doug

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No no no no no!

I can't stress this enough, NEVER use a wrench to tighten a oil filter. Doing so may deform the gasket/o-ring causing leaks, and at the very least, it makes the filter EXTREMELY difficult to remove later on.

I, and every other DIY oil changer I know always hand tighten our oil filters. None of us have ever reported problems with leakage because the filter wasn't tightened enough.

Back to your original question, I've found that the pliers type filter wrenches work best on the smaller filters. Something such as this one that Snap-On sells should do the trick.

 

[cousincletus]

I have a pliers filter tool like the one that Tom H posted and it works well on the little ACDelco PF-47 filter on my Cavalier. However, on my Dodge Ram p/u I have to use a filter wrench to tighten as I don't have the strength to tighten it 3/4 turn in the tight location. I use a smooth band-style K-D wrench on that one. But only tighten them 3/4 turn and remember to oil the gasket.

 

[ediamiam]

I was going to post a pic of my filter wrench, but realized I didn't know how.. but a description - takes a 3/8 drive on the bottom, and is spring-loaded with a variable diameter of about 2 5/8 to 3 1/2 inches. Basically fits over the bottom of the filter and has 4 contact points to grab with.

[ August 09, 2005, 01:24 PM: Message edited by: ediamiam ]

 

[TomH]

quote:

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Originally posted by ediamiam:
I was going to post a pic of my filter wrench, but realized I didn't know how.. but a description - takes a 3/8 drive on the bottom, and is spring-loaded with a variable diameter of about 2 5/8 to 3 1/2 inches. Basically fits over the bottom of the filter and has 4 contact points to grab with.

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Sounds like you are refering to something such as this:

I also have one of these, but honestly find the pliers type more useful.

 

[1sttruck]

On the truck I'll sometimes use an end cap wrench, but on all vehicels I'll use a small rubber starp wrench most often.

 

[farang]

What do you guys think about this?

I am about to buy one for $6.99

 

[H2GURU]

Some of the filters on imports are really small and in tight places. I use one like TOM H and it works great! It is mace by LISLE, Google it and you'll find it .

 

[Mud]

What TomH said.

Most oil filters are WAY overtightened when installed. No need to. Hand-tightened is fine, but sometimes space is limited so I use a wrench to do the 3/4 turn. Never a problem to remove.

Cousincletus, we have an 01 Cavalier and as you know the PF-47 is small and short. just fyi, filters that are about the same diameter but a little longer are PF-52, MC FL402, and Wix 51036. Since finding an excellent on-line source (www.filter1.com) for Wix filters I've gone with the 51036. Gives a little more filtration and is also easier to reach!

We have everything from cars to trucks to tractors to mowers to atv's and filter1 has the Wix filters for all of them - very convenient.

 

[AndyH]

Another happy pliers-type filter wrench user here. I use it on the tiny filter on my Subaru Impreza WRX STi. Purchased mine from Griot's Garage (although I don't see it listed on their web site now).

Griot's Garage also sells this interesting Facom oil filter strap wrench:

quote:

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REMOVE THE MOST STUBBORN OIL FILTERS WITH THIS STRAP WRENCH
The problem with most oil filter wrenches is that they usually require a lot of room to be effective and don't have a sufficient gripping mechanism to keep them from slipping around the filter. This is a brilliant design, especially for all of the extra small filters I see manufacturers putting in cramped engine compartments these days! Simply turn the red knob on the end of the handle to tighten the metal strap around the filter; the ratcheting feature lets you work in ultra tight quarters! The metal jaws will clamp down on the filter and turn it loose without any slippage. With the handle being only 7" long, this oil wrench will function even in the tightest engine compartments. Easy to grip in tight places, even if your hands are oily! Fits oil filter diameters 2 5/8" to 4 3/16".

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It is expensive though at $34.99

 

[ediamiam]

Mine looks like this. Don't remember where I got it, but probably have had it since '93 when I bought a vehicle that had the smaller filter.

 

[steveh]

I have a pliers type wrench like tom h it works great. I bought mine at sears.