New jeep - first oil filter change - filter stuck & crushed

What kind of filter wrench are you using? I use the type that is a flat steel band with a handle on the ends. When oriented in the right direction, yanking on the handle tightens the band around the filter. More yanking, more tightening. I can't imagine there is a filter that is stuck too much for this kind of wrench to get it off, though I did break the spot welds off on the metal strap once. Replaced the welds with some screws and nuts and it is now better than new.

I'd avoid the "whack it with a screwdriver" technique in case you go through and score the gasket surface.

I doubt the factory spun it on too tight, the gasket is probably just stuck after sitting (transport and waiting to be sold) for a long time.

-Fred W

I think my dad used to use his belt as an oil wrench, seemed to work fine back then.

Last resort: Punch a pry bar through the filter and use that to lever it loose.

Been there, done that, got the greasy T-shirt.

Jeff

I feel your pain. First time I tried to remove my filter when I first took possession of my Jeep I had a similar problem. I'm pretty tall with long arms, though, and was able to get enough leverage that, after about my 15th go at it, I finally got it started loosening (using both hands to try to turn it).

If you simply cannot get in there with enough leverage to do it with your bare hands, yes, the screwdriver method works; and if you've already busted it (and it's already spilled oil all over your floor), I'd say that's probably your best bet.

There is a sort of oil filter "wrench", I believe it's like a bar with a strap on it or something, made specifically for loosening a stuck filter. You might look for one of those, too, if you don't want to stick a screwdriver through the filter. Anyone else on the NG able to better explain this device? I know it exists, but haven't ever needed it nor even seen one. Just heard about it.

Good luck!

/Bob

a) multiple wrenches,

Methob "B" works, but I use it as a last resort, as it can damage the sealing surface if you are not careful. I use a huge pair of channel-locks for most filters. My favorite special tool had three arms that squeeze it by the end and will crush it, but always works. A simple strap-wrench will probably do it, you dont have to by the plastic one sold by the carpenter, bob villa, use an old serpentine belt, timing belt, or a piece of tow-strap with a pair of vise-grips. Jamming a big screwdriver through it is messy, but usually works. If it doesn't, then your only option is "B".

Just as Paul sugests, use a big pair of channel lock pliers, or refered as water pump pliers, I had to use them on a Ford Escort for the first oil change, the oil filter on your Wrangler is a lot easier to get to than the escort....

Kevin in Iowa

I would laugh but the samething happened to me. The factory oil filter must have been put on with an air gun! They did not oil the the gasket or read the instructions on the filter! Here are some tips:

1) If the filter is still on you could drill a hole through it and insert a big screw driver.

2) Make sure you are using a good oil filter remover and not a cheap platic tool, it should be made out of metal. Try a new type of remover

3) I got mine of by using a "Boa" tool from Canadian Tire - it is a long thick rubber band with a plastic handle. I wrapped it around the filter and it had enough grip to get it off.

Hey where do you live?

1, Large Strap Wrench

1. Cold chisel > > I am attempting my first oil filter change in my 04 Wrangler. Luckily I

my first attempt is with one of the oil filter wrenches with the metal strap & handle - I have learned to always stay as close to the block as possible. I don't like the wrenches that fit on the end of the filter because a tight filter will merely twist the end of the filter without loosening it. When that doesn't work. I go for the chain wrench (it's like the strap wrenches that everybody else talked about - but it has a bicycle chain on it instead of a rubber strap). If there is anything of the filter left to grab on to - the chain wrench will get it off..............more better than a rubber strap wrench. If that fails - then its time for a chisel & hammer on the part that screws on to the fitting (not a screw driver)..............

I had this same thing happen & I wound up using a hammer to drive a big ol screwdriver through the filter & got it to start spinning with that. Note: Make sure your turning the right way.

L8r - Jersey

i can't help remembering my ex....tighty lucy!!

Yups... makes a mess, but works hehehehe.

Dave

In news:yEUmc.452838$ snipped-for-privacy@twister01.bloor.is.net.cable.rogers.com, SB from was injured because:

LMAO!

No matter how stuck, if I go from underneath, I can always get anough leverage on it by hand...course, I wear grippy nitrile gloves, too.

Uh...are we back to talking about the oil filter?

works every time. john