How To Use Oil Filter Strap Wrench

If information technology's time for an engine oil change, yous'll need a few different tools and supplies. Get together new engine oil and a new oil filter, plus a wrench or socket for the oil drain plug, a bleed pan and some rags for cleanup too as prophylactic gloves and glasses, too.

One other tool y'all'll definitely need is an oil filter wrench, which comes in handy when a used oil filter doesn't desire to come off easily. Learn how to use an oil filter wrench so you can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

How to Employ an Oil Filter Wrench

All oil filters and caps use correct-hand threads — clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. Some tools only grip counterclockwise for loosening. Several oil filter wrench types are bachelor, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:

End Cap: End cap filter wrenches fit a unmarried filter size. Yous fit the cap to the filter and utilise a ratchet or wrench to loosen information technology.
Claw: Universal claw-blazon wrenches have 2 or three claws that grip the oil filter. The more you plow the ratchet or wrench to loosen the filter, the tighter the claws grip. Spring-loaded hook wrenches tend to stay attached to the filter, freeing upward your hands in tight spaces.
Ring: A band wrench is simple to use and fits a range of filter sizes. It works in one direction, with a swivel handle to fit tight spaces; others are used with a ratchet or wrench. Endeavor flipping information technology over if it doesn't grip.
Strap: Strap wrenches use a flexible strap to grip the filter. Some have a handle, while others need a ratchet or wrench. Some strap wrenches grip in either management. To utilise, clean the strap and filter to prevent slipping. Once the filter is loose, remove the strap before fully loosening the filter and removing it by mitt. This prevents oil from soaking into the strap.
Pliers: Oil filter pliers spread the force over 3 or iv points to amend grip and limit slip but demand more clearance to use. Exist sure to get a firm grip with your pliers before attempting to loosen the filter.
Chain: Concatenation wrenches wrap effectually the oil filter with extreme grip and are very constructive. Some chain wrenches piece of work in either direction.
Wrench or Ratchet: Some spin-on oil filters and canister filters have a hex or square lug or a hole. Employ a wrench, ratchet or socket to loosen the filter for these.

Here'due south How NOT to Employ an Oil Filter Wrench

For the most part, don't use an oil filter wrench to install an oil filter, which needs very little torque. Spin-on oil filters are tightened half to three-quarters of a turn after gasket contact. For canister filters, employ the tool only to tighten until it contacts the base, then apply the correct torque with a torque wrench. Canister filters are sealed past an O-band and overtightening could interruption them. Oil filter torque is low-cal, usually 10 to twenty foot-pounds.

Ever check your maintenance or repair manual for vehicle specifics before changing your oil. Afterwards the oil modify, clean up and recycle the used oil. Auto parts stores and many repair shops have used oil for recycling.

Check out all the car filters available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more than information on oil filter wrenches, chat with a knowledgeable good at your local NAPA Motorcar PARTS shop.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Benjamin Jerew View All

Ben has been taking things autonomously since he was 5, and putting them dorsum together again since he was 8. Later dabbling in DIY repairs at dwelling house and on the subcontract, he found his calling in the CGCC Auto Repair program. Subsequently he held his ASE CMAT for 10 years, Ben decided he needed a change. Now, he writes on automotive topics beyond the web and effectually the world, including new automotive technology, transportation legislation, emissions, fuel economy and auto repair.