I am attempting to change my fuel filter - have a new Napa unit complete with new lid.

I can not get the old one off (this alone tells me it's been on there too long). The hex is 26mm and all I have is a 26mm box end. It just rounds the corners of the plastic hex off.
As the new filter has a new lid, I am using a steel chisel and hammer (in a CCW direction) at several places on the top flange. I have also smacked the top flange liberally to get it to let go of whatever is holding it.

I'm about to get out my map torch out and warm up the plastic but would rather not produce a flame on something with fuel directly behind it.

Does anyone have a suggestion?

 

Maybe try a hair dryer but I wouldn't hit it with a torch. I'd either try a pipe wrench on what's left of that top nub or turn the chisel on it's side and make a hole in that lid to drive against and hammer on it. The further out on the lid you are the better leverage you'll have. I just went through that but the one I had had some fins on the top of it and I waled on them.

 

Thanks Mr. Hunter. I used a heat gun (red hair dryer).

When reinstalling the new one, I noticed that the plastic thread seem to be the issue. I coated them with some silicone spray and it went in much easier.

 

The lids are tight and supposed to be that way, and make sure the bevel on the gasket goes Down! Or you will find out why.....

 

Thanks for the tips.
The Napa brand I purchased has the "improved" gasket. Its square and didn't require a specific install direction.
It shouldn't be tight in the threads as they aren't what seals it. All the tight threads did was force me to ruin the lid removing it.

I started it up with no issues and I checked for leaks - all good.

Again, thanks for responding so quickly and giving me the idea of the blow dryer - worked like a charm.

 

Cool, The only reason I caution leaks is cause when it does.....you will have a diesel bath on your hands. not fun to clean up