2.2 Oil Filter wrench

[Tom Dunn]

Stopped into NAPA the other day to get the stuff for an oil change. Included in the purchase was an end cap type oil filter wrench. It fits the NAPA 1334 filter, it has a 3.25" diameter/15 flute design.

However, the oil filter on the car is smaller, probably 3" I'm guessing. I doubled checked the number on the NAPA site and the replacement I was given appears correct. However, I can't get the old filter off. I'm supposing I need to buy another wrench simply to remove the old filter? There does not seem to be much room to get a strap type wrench up in there to get the old one out.

Any suggestions?

[Handtool]

Hammer a screw driver thru and break it free. Messy, but it always works. Put the new filter on hand tight.

[Snowman]

I just bought some oil filter pliers from Mac Tools. Havent tried them yet, but they look pretty slick. Big knarley teeth to dig into the filter and three size settings like Channellock pliers.

[hklaine]

I just bought some oil filter pliers from Mac Tools. Havent tried them yet, but they look pretty slick. Big knarley teeth to dig into the filter and three size settings like Channellock pliers.

 

These are the ultimate!

[Scottbaru]

I had to use a filter wrench last week for the first time in years, on my "new" '99 Legacy. I used a strap-type with flex handle, that worked well. If you do your own oil changes and just put the filters on finger-tip tight, you'll never need the wrench again. I do it by feel, finger-tip tight, but I've read 3/4 turn after the gasket hits the engine is good. Always put fresh oil on the filter gasket before installing, always check the engine sealing surface. If the old filter left it's gasket on the engine, you need to get it off. I always fill the filter with oil before installing, especially recommended for turbo engines. That lessens dry running while the filter fills.

 

Are the oil filter pliers much better than a pair of really big channel-locks? Every tool box needs giant channel locks.