Attempted to change my oil filter today for the first time. What a pain in the rear that is. Oil filter spot cannot get a regular oil filter wrench in there. I brought a socket style from Auto Zone made for Motorcraft filter, did not work either. So I stopped.

What has everyone found that will work on the oil filter? Store and part number would be great.

Thanks In advance

 

You can buy expensive filter removal tools from Lisle(sp?) or if this is the factory filter it's probably cheaper to take it to the dealer for the first oil change and have them "deal" with the super tight filter. All factory filters seem to be installed by a strong gorilla. I did that with my 2002 F-150 and my next oil change I was able to remove the filter by hand without a filter wrench. As you should be able to do if the filter is tightened properly.

Whimsey

 

The first oil change on my 5.4L was a true pain. From now on, I recommend the dealer for the first change because the filter is very tight and I doubt they lub the seal before hand.
The strap wrench I was using did not slip but it simply crushed-in at the pressure point. I was going to run to the store for a cap wrench when I noticed that MC replacement filters do not use a cap wrench so I went back to yanking on the strap wrench. I used small sections of heater hose around the strap to help increase friction, take-up excess slack, and take-up the space where it cave in. Then I applied force to the handle more in the direction of the handle length than perpendicular to the handle. This way I could create torque while minimizing the force that caves-in the filter. The handle on my wrench was formed from steel in a "U" shape so I used a broom handle to push on the handle's end.
Took me two hours. I was not feeling like a proud Ford owner that afternoon. I have not changed it again yet. I don't expect the next change to give me this trouble.

You can remove the drip pain (two bolts) and then you can spear it from below with a screwdriver. If you do that - you are committed.

If your filter still holds oil, bring it to the dealer.
Let us know how you make out.

 

Hey Guys,

Are there any kits out there that can relocate the oil filter to a more manageable location, perhaps on the frame somewhere?

CMOS

 

I use this with a long extension and a 3/8 ratchet. Never had a problem and i take off the factory oil filters all the time. If its on there really tight use a 3/8 to 1/2 adaptor and get a bigger ratchet.

 

I had the same problem with mine on the first oil change. I had two extentions and the oil filter socket and I almost broke my "nuts" trying to get it lose. After the first oil change I didnt need the socket.

 

I feel your pain. A regular decent filter wrench should work. I was able to get the handle pointed around 10 o'clock with a shop rag in between the two. I believe I had better access with the wrench closer to the engine. The fan shroud can get annoying, but with a set of mechanics gloves or even jersey gloves it makes a big difference on not getting a nuckle-buster. I also own an '03 Explorer 4.6, same filter location, I did it about the same way. Thank Ford for putting them in the most inconvenient of places!

 

My first oil filter change on the 5.4L was a witch, due to the filter being so tight. One of my buddies recently got an 04 Screw, and sure nuff his first change was difficult also. We changed the oil & filter on an 05 F250 with the 5.4L at work today, and the filter darn near fell off when I grabbed it by hand. Go figure.

Just don't put the new filter back on dry, and tighten it about 3/4 turn after the gasket touches. No problems after that.

 

Obviously the fan shroud is the problem, why not replace with an electric set of fans and gain a bump in hp as well as making filter changes a snap.

just a thought.

 

I had heard about the potential for difficulties with the first filter change also from this site. I was having trouble getting into the dealer for an oil change due to work schedule so, I decided to go into Jiffy Lube on Sunday (good day off activity). I went out and watched the guy take the filter off waiting for him to start cussing at some point. He used what he called a "grabber" with a 2' extension (looked a lot like the one pictured above). The filter came off surprisingly easily. He told me he had issues with other new Fords in the past until he started using the "grabber". Looks like one of my new purchases. If the wife reads this I might even get one for Christmas! -Glenn

 

Anyone one where a good place to find one of the GRABBER filter wrenches?


Dan Stuckey
Altoona, Pa

 

Sears, model #02820523000, mfr p/n 51121SA706. $12.99.

I just looked at Sears.com, and it shows the item temporarily out of stock.

I picked mine up at my local Sears last year. Once you get the factory filter replaced, you don't really need this much gripping power, but it's still a good tool to have around.

 

I use the Motorcraft filter adapter from Auto zone connected to a swivel joint to an extension to 3/8 drive no trouble what so ever!

 

a screw driver works well on the factory filter.