Oil Filter Change Difficulties

[wm_sorg]

Hi Guys,

My explorer got it's first oil change today. Unfortunately, I could not change the filter because I could not get it off.

Can anyone reccomend the right tool and how to get at it?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

BILL

 

[yob_yeknom]

Not sure how your filter is mounted, but I use a oil filter wrench that the handle swivels down. One that the handle does not swivel won't fit in the space around the filter.

 

[Mbrooks420]

My dad has a nice filter wrench that goes right on a 3/8 drive ratchet. Works real nice.

 

[clarkkent]

wrap a big rubber band around it and twist.. make sure to wipe any oil off the filter

 

[wm_sorg]

Thanks. I am going to go to sears and look for a cap wrench. It still looks like it will be a tight squeeze. They put the filter in the front behind a frame rail.

 

[Mbrooks420]

Well that might explain it. Mine is right next to the drain plug.

 

[wm_sorg]

I still can not figure out why they put it there. They even went as far as putting a plastic piece on the frame for oil run-off.

 

[Redrig]

i think they make oil filter relocating kits. but im not sure how dependable they are. im sure you already know this, just a suggestion

 

[clarkkent]

before u run out to sears and spend 20 bucks.. use the big rubberband trick..

 

[Mbrooks420]

Sometimes you need leverage, not grip. A good filter wrench is nice to have. Over the life of a vehicle it will more than pay for itself in time saved under the truck.

 

[hrbib21]

03 B/B Explorer Limited V8

What's B/B? Did you mean E/B, as in Eddie Bauer?

 

[wm_sorg]

Sorry. I should probably change it. It means black on black. When I can figure how to post pictures I will put one up here. It looks pretty slick.

 

[metalhed]

Hmm.. If it comes down to it, you could put a flathead in one of the grooves, and use a mallet or hammer to try to break the seal.

 

[wm_sorg]

I almost did that. I went to sears and found a great tool. It is not like the traditional cam wrenches. It has three arms and fits over the top like a cap wrench. As you loosen the amrs tighten up on the filter and spin it.

It uses 3/8 drive. I was able to use a 7" extension and swivel. Man that thing was on gorilla tight.

I really appreciate all the help I got from you guys. This board rocks.

BILL

 

[Adam Foote]

yeah if its where i think it is then it also helps to turn the wheels all the way to the right... may be a different spot though.. it was on there so tight cus thats how they all come from the factory... it sucks.. (i change oil alot at work)

 

[hrbib21]

Originally posted by wm_sorg
Sorry. I should probably change it. It means black on black. When I can figure how to post pictures I will put one up here. It looks pretty slick.

Yeah, sounds cool.