So my question is has anybody tried a strap wrench I believe it's called for removing the dreaded filter cap to avoid it breaking ?

 

I have used a strap wrench every time. I use a ratchet and socket on the nut and a strap wrench around the bowl. No issues so far.

 

Yeah that's what I was thinking after a couple beers and thinking of preventive maintenance and to make my life a lot easier. Hope you have a great Sunday enjoy the beer and hopefully you have nice weather as for me in Washington State it is a nice day. Got some elk steaks I'm about to cook up some beer in the icebox spend time with the family.

 

do the same..lots of times the strap wrench is all that is needed...

 

I have used a strap wrench in the past, but changed my filters and oil today and use the 1 1/4" socket today for the first time and it worked well.

 

I will be changing my fuel filters for the second time in a week or two. I plan to use the socket wrench because I have a spare housing just in case. I oiled the O-ring before installing the housing at the last change. If I crack the housing using the socket then I will switch to a strap wrench for future changes.

 

I've been using a socket/wrench on my '12 since new and never broke the filter housing. I did purchase a spare housing several years ago.

 

I put two of us on it with a strap wrench and socket the first time and was successful without cracking the housing. I lube the threads and o-ring with diesel and only use a ratchet now - same technique for over six years.

 

I've changed it twice since I've gotten my truck, use the socket. I also lube up the gasket, I use <new> engine oil like the gasket of an oil filter. I as well have a spare just in case. I put 1 hand on the socket wrench and 1 hand on the extension to try and keep the socket on straight when removing and tightening when it gets close to the end. Those last couple of turns when tightening sure do make me nervous.

 

It is recommended by Ford diesel master techs to use clean engine oil on the threads and o-ring instead of diesel fuel.

 

I go one step further and coat the o-ring with synthetic grease and I don't have any trouble with just using the 1 1/4 socket with ratchet. I've probably changed a hundred of those filters and never broke one BUT I do have a spare on the shelf:-)

 

I've exclusively used a socket with no issues. I just slowly apply the torque to break it loose. The other thing is to use a 6-point socket. Not a 12-point as there is not enough contact area.

 

No issues with the grease?

 

I've only used the socket but I like the idea of a strap used concurrent w socket. Thanks to ***** and Larry for their tips.

 

Okay going to get the strap wrench but what is is called ? Sorry for my ignorance.