GT - V6 Oil Change

[Beatle]

Did oil and filter change today. What an absolute Baars-Taaard of a job!!!!   

I couldn't fit the first type of filter wrench into the space available.  I used the second style, but I had to use a spanner on it as there isn't space to get a ratchet handle onto the end.  It took all my five hands, a big screwdriver to keep the wrench over the filter, and holding my tongue just right...... and it kept skewing off.

What do others use?    I'm thinking a strap wrench may be the go next time as you can wrench from the side, not the end.  Chain or fabric strap wrench?   

Or one of those perfect-fit cap/sockets?  Might get enough clearance to use a 3/8 flex head ratchet handle?  Not sure how they would go if the filter is tight though

Do other GT DIYers loosen off the piping brackets?  I didn't, and managed to force the filter out and back in.  But I can't see any way to do the job without getting oil everywhere?  Cleaned up with a spray of degreaser but consumed 6-months regular usage of my rag stash!

I used a Ryco Z148 filter (I hear howls of protest) and Penrite HPR-10  10W/50, and both are also compatible with my 1997 Landcruiser, which is convenient.....    

[Neil Choi]

Get one of these.
From SCA, oil filter pliers, $17.  But a Snap On is better.

[Beatle]

Thanks Neil.  Can you get enough of a swing with it on a V6 though?  I guess as long as you can get enough purchase on the filter this allow one to take small bites at it, plus this style doesn't need top be square on to the filter to be effective.   

[Kulwinder]

First don't need to tight that much. As it has rubber seal to stop oil leak. If still leaks then tight bit more. First time when I had to open filter of my grandeur then I bought this one with strap. Fits to almost any filter. And easy to use in tight spaces. I have used it on few different cars.


Kulwinder Singh

[bazzbazz]

Should have called me mate, would have told you straight away to use a hammer & punch on the edge of the filter & tap it round to get it started.  (yes, I can hear the face slap from here   )

Baz

[Beatle]

1.  I considered the screwdriver-on-the-lip technique, but couldn't get a screwdriver on it.   

2.  It's always nice to say don't overtighten the filter, but invariably I nip them up by hand (on a variety of cars) yet still find it difficult to undo them.  Maybe I have a LH threaded arm......

3.  I will never again consider staking a screwdriver through a filter.  On the V6 there is no room to turn a screwdriver anyway, and I did it once on a filter and all it achieved was to cut the back end off the filter as the screwdriver rotated.  The filter was so tight it stayed firmly gripped against the engine, but with the added benefit of lots of jagged bits of tin sticking out!

Next time I reckon I'll loosen pipework first (one pipe runs close to sump plug anyway), then hopefully get the filter loose. Then with the aid of a magnet, keep the filter upright and remove it from the engine bay without spilling a drop of oil.......    Bets anyone?

[colcol]

Its been asked before, but has anyone ever considered fitting a remote oil filter?, so that the filter could be located where it could be easy to get at so it would be changed when needed, not when your long service leave has come up.
I am told that some taxi's and 4 wheel drives that have got difficult to get at oil filters have this modification.
The JTS 4 cylinder is quite easy to change once you get all the undertray off, gives you more time to do the oil filter and thermostat at the same time, Colin.

[Beatle]

Hmmmmm, maybe I invest in a pipe bender..........