Oil filter removal - tool comparison

[Skylark]

I’ve just had a fight with an oil filter that steadfastly refuse to lose its grip (not boaty).



On my boat, I can usually remove the filter by hand wearing a pair of marigolds. Failing that, the rubber strap wrench has never failed.

On this application the rubber strap gripped well but I was at the point of breaking the plastic handle when I stopped. The 3-leg tool didn’t perform well at all, it really struggled to grip and slipped with ease. The chain wrench, probably bought in the early 70s, saved the day. At first I put the chain mid way along the length of the filter but, using quite a lot of force, pierced the canister. I moved the chain to as close as possible towards the end attached to the block and, eventually, it freed. It took the best part of an hour to free it. Access wasn’t great.

Threads appear on the forum from time to time asking for an oil filter tool recommendation. I’m posting to share my experience of commonly available tools used for a particular stubborn application.

 

[Praxinoscope]

I have used the triple claw type (top item in photo)now for several years and found it the best option especially in the inevitable awkward places the fuel and oil filters are inevitably sited.

 

[Momac]

I have one of these which is very compact but no good on a stubborn filter

I have one of this type which is much better


I borrowed one of these once and it worked really well

 

[colind3782]

I have them all, tried them all and the middle one above is the only one that works within the limited range of movement I have

 

[penfold]

I've had best luck with these, but even they aren't infallible. This type can also do well.

The best solution is a socket sized to your filter if it's in an awkward place.

 

[Ian_Rob]

After a lot of trial and error, not to mention cuts to my arms, this is the one that I find works best on my D1-30 B given the access restrictions I have.

 

[Stemar]

My get out of jail weapon for filters is a sharp screwdriver bashed through the filter. Messy but as long as I can get a bit of umph on the screwdriver, it's never let me down.

 

[RivalRedwing]

maybe a touch over-tightened?

Item 2 on MartynG's list for me

 

[Clancy Moped]

I often found my filter wrench #3 in amongst the wife's utensils draw.

 

[Boater Sam]

That is what happens if you don't grease the rubber seal before fitting.

 

[sailoppopotamus]

I use the locking-plier-type tool that looks like this and it makes the job really easy.

 

[Daydream believer]

#3 has the best design. However, in the absence of having mine with me I made one at the marina using a bolt & a short piece of sailtie for the webbing.
I cut a slot 35mm long, in the end of a bolt, with my angle grinder. The pics show the rest.
The bolt & piece of webbing are now permanent resident on the boat & always work.
Best bit is that apart from an old bolt & a bit of wear on a cutting disc it cost nothing.

 

[boomerangben]

6” nail and a hammer works well but as per the screwdriver solution above is a bit messy

 

[Skylark]

That is what happens if you don't grease the rubber seal before fitting.

It had laid untouched for 28 years.

 

[Frayed Knot]

I always grease the seal, never over tighten & stil it’s always a complete **** to undo. With terrible access & only room for less than an eighth of a turn on a wrench I’ve found the three legged tool the least worst - considerably improved by wrapping the legs in thick elastic bands to reduce slipping.
I now find I only have to butcher the thing with a screwdriver about every third year?

 

[Seastoke]

It had laid untouched for 28 years.

David the image of you with your marigolds and if you need some advice change your oil more regular than 28 years.

 

[Daydream believer]

Leaving old engine oil in an engine is really bad for the engine. I understand that the acids that are said to build up in old premium grade oils & are said to be corrosive to the parts.
I change my engine oil at the end of every year. That can mean that the oil is in the engine for a few hours more than recommended, but at least it does not sit unused over the winter months.

 

[Skylark]

David the image of you with your marigolds and if you need some advice change your oil more regular than 28 years.

Marigolds are a key component of an engine service. They significantly enhance friction and provide a dermatology barrier against oil and diesel when changing filters. ?

Thanks for the advice, Roy. I’d pass it on to the owner of the barn find but he’s pushing up daises so probably no longer cares. ?

Hope you’re doing ok.

 

[Seastoke]

Yes mate all good , currently cruising to all coastal spoons , spreading the new party policy , the new leader to be announced but you will be pleased it might begin with B. Ps the barn find hope it’s not another moggy thou

 

[Daydream believer]

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