What`s the best way to cut open an oil filter?

[Steve S]

Originally Posted By: Nick R
I use a Dremel tool with a cutting wheel. I need to get more though so I can cut open the Factory filter from my focus, I just haven't gotten to Sears yet to do it. Might have some pics up tomorrow night if I can get out tomorrow since I'm off.
I cut open my daughters Focus filter it appears to be well built .

 

[mjoekingz28]

Where are you guys cutting them at?

I tried one a few weeks back and started on the threads end, but the metal was too thick for a reciprocating saw. Should it be cut on the other end (where the edges are for fitting a cup wrench)?

 

[AuthorEditor]

Use the KRC Racing cutter tool. Works great, takes about a minute and gives a nice clean cut. Scroll down the page a bit to see it. KRC Racing tool

 

[trabuccomlfrd]

i just poke a hole in it and then cut it with a box cutter, crude but effective

 

[ZeeOSix]

Originally Posted By: trabuccomlfrd
i just poke a hole in it and then cut it with a box cutter, crude but effective


You cut the metal can with a box cutter? ... must be one mean box cutter.

 

[trabuccomlfrd]

no its a regular one, but it quickly burns through the blade

 

[kokopelli]

VERY interested in filter cutting tools; can't seem to locate the one from Harbor Freight other than a standard pipe cutter. But if that type of tool works well, then I guess that'll have to work.

 

[FL-400S]

I got this one yesterday
http://www.harborfreight.com/no-3-pipe-cutter-5983.html

I tried it on a Toyota OEM 3614 filter that I had already tried to open with a can opener. The baseplate was off but the metal crimped the filter element into the can. I tried the HF pipecutter but it just crushed the can and wouldnt hold it steady. Didnt really work at all. If I got it tight enough I couldnt turn the filter in the cutter....any advice? I think I'll return it bc it didnt come with the extra cutting wheels anyway.

 

[Sayjac]

Yeah, someone posted the same results you had with the same HF pipecutter some time back, said it crushed the can. IME, the HF exhaust cutter works much better, and the ~3" dia. should work fine on the 3614. HTH

 

[steve20]

I have the Summit one like PAblo-do not care for it at all I would not recommend this one. Cutter wheel dulled after with probably about 30 filters cut. I still use (and curse) it because it cost 35 bucks


Steve

 

[mechanicx]

If the baseplate is off probably every cutter will crush the can instead of cutting.