Stubborn Filter

[ought2]

I decided to change my oil last weekend. One of those jobs that usually takes 15 minutes, but sometimes turns into a marathon task. After using 3 types of filter wrenches (strap, band and triclaw) it won't budge. I even used a lever attachment with one of the wrenches and all it did was bend the handle. I'm at my wits end. I hesitate to use the screw driver method as I've seen cases where the can simply shears off. I suppose I could invest in a new pair of monster channel lock pliers, but I'm trying to keep this oil change within a reasonable $ amount. After doing a search, I saw a couple of posts suggesting removing the filter mount itself and then tackling the filter once the assembly is removed from the car. Is there a gasket that I will need to replace or can I simply reuse the old one, providing it's still in good shape? TIA

[Guest Anonymous]

Try using a cold chisel on the heavy edge of the filter. Tap it repeatedly and try to get it to turn just as you would a bolt with a stripped head.

shermanmartinez@hotmail.com

[DavidLMM]

If it were me, I'd go ahead and pony up for the $3 gasket.

http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/114/Sedan/USA/2002-M10/1974/browse/engine/oil_filter/

Good luck, watch those knuckles!

David in Nashville

[Guest Anonymous]

also try loosening it while it is hot. and next time just hand tighten it.

[Paul7002]

there is a filter wrench type that fits over the entire end of the filter with angled cuts like a 12 pt wrench, assuming the filter you have has such angles on the end.

I'd go with giant chanell lock, but thats only 'cause I already own own some

[ought2]

All of the tips are much appreciated. Just to clarify my particular situation, I did warm the engine first, drained the old oil and then tackled the filter. The old filter was hand tightened. It makes sense to change out the housing gasket if I were to remove the filter housing, but it appears to be a special order item that might take quite a while to get. Sooo, I guess I've always wanted a nice, new set of giant channel locks. The battery is already out to gain greater access, but I can see where the tray will also have to be removed. Battery relocation is now on my to do list... I'll let you all know how this works. Thanks again.

[Napes]

Just thinking "out loud" but I wonder if whoever installed the last filter remembered to run a smear of engine oil around the gasket before installing. I can't imagine a "hand-tightened" filter being that hard to remove, unless the hand belonged to one hell-of-a strong person.

Bob Napier

[ought2]

That's my thought, too, Bob. My trusted mechanic did the last change when I had the car in for some other things. I agree that a properly lubed filter is unlikely to freeze onto the housing, but some guys swear it happens.

[BillWilliams]

Wellll - the battery thing seems even a better idea now.

I use those big channel locks with success, I got mine pretty cheaply from Harbour Freight locally

[jp02ti]

I hate to suggest this, but having made the mistake myself I'll go ahead. are you sure you're turning it the right way? I have FAILED by using my left hand from a bad angle and actually turned the wrong way. sometimes its the little things...

[Guest Anonymous]

take a big honking screwdriver and drive it through the filter and twist it off!

[bobthomas]

take a big honking screwdriver and drive it through the filter and twist it off!

That's worked for me.

[TobyB]

My favorite filter wrench looks like a mongoloid set of

channel locks, but they're curved to go round the filter.

Really sharp teeth- tehy make big dents in the can and grab on for dear life.

So far they have never failed me.

Got 'em at Schucks. Proves that occasionally, the junk at

Shucks is pretty darn good junk.

t

[jgerock]

My favorite oil filter removal tool was a gift from Griot's Garage. Looks like a simple pair of pliers with serrated teeth on both wide jaws.

I've noticed the metal filter housings seem to be thinner than they used to - and they will crush easier.

I have both a metal strap-type and cap-type wrench in my toolbox, but they don't get used much. The strap-type slips if oil is on the filter and the plastic cap wrench doesn't fit many newer filters.

The filter location on M10 engines is sometimes a pain. I use a piece of plastic draped over the alternator and a bag on my hand to reduce the mess when the filter finally drops off the mount. I will eventually move my battery to the trunk.

[BillWilliams]

Hey Jim, a tip from a curmudgeon - once it is loose, put a plastic bag or baggie over the filter and finish loosening it with the outside of the bag acting as a glove.

The filter will drop into the bag, seal it up and through it away - no fuss no muss.