When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
The previous owner apparently didn't have a large enough socket to remove the cap, so used either channel locks or a pipe wrench to unscrew it. The top is stripped pretty much round as a result, so whenever I change my oil I'm stuck using a pipe wrench, which tears it up even more. It doesn't help that it's relatively soft plastic.
So my question is, are there any companies that make OEM spec. aluminum caps? I know the deal with only sticking with OEM due to sizing differences and letting unfiltered oil pass, but a metal cap would hold up better over time. If there aren't any available, where is the best place to find an OEM plastic cap?
I'd stick with the OEM and use the proper tools. Problems have arisen with some non oem caps.
Thats what I'm worried about, which is why I asked here before. I have the right socket, but the current cap is too stripped around the nut. It still seals fine though, so I'm not worried about it until the next change.
I have done 24 oil changes with the OEM oil cap and probably around 10 fuel filter changes with the OEM fuel filter cap. Both caps are in great shape. The secret? Only use 6 point sockets and put a thin rag between the cap and the socket so there is no wiggle room. Lisle makes sockets for the 6.0 and they can be acquired in many places on the internet and probably locally as well. After you do your next oil change, calculate your savings over a razzle dazzle aftermarket cap, put it in a savings account for when you will need it for parts down the road. It helps if you establish a relationship with you local Ford house. I generally look up what I need in genuine Ford or Motorcraft parts online, print it out and take it to the local Ford house and ask if they can meet the price. If they don't , I just say I wanted to give you the "last look", smile and head out the door. Sometimes they meet a comparative price, sometimes they don't.