Is there any way to remove the oil filter without a filter wrench?

 

You can use your hand. Or if it is stuck, jab a screw driver through it and turn it that way.

 

If it isn't on too tight you can. You need both hands so you will need to jack it up.

 

Or use a huge pair of channel locks, that way you can go straight at it from underneath.

If you replace it with a K&N filter, then they have a thing on the bottom that you can use a 1" socket on to get it off super easy

 

Once time at band camp, I mean one time my filter was on so tight that when I stuck a screwdriver through it and turn it, the filter just tore instead of turning and coming off. So I had to use a pipe like a chisel and hammer it to make it turn. What a pain that was.

Now I just dont tighten them on so much when I change my oil. I can remove it by hand. As a matter of fact I just changed my oil this morning.

 

I second the big channel lock method.

 

I've used a wrench every time with no problem. Even with that extra cat up there, because mine is a 96, I still have enough room to get it off. Make sure when you put the new filter on you smear a light bead of engine oil on the filter gasket! It will help it seal better and keep it from sticking to the block for next time.

 

Just wrap a belt or strap it a couple of times and it should tighten enough to provide leverage. And, of course when replacing it don't reef on it---doesn't require much to keep it from leaking. JMHO

 

You should only put it on a bit more than hand tight anyway.

Rich

 

Bigger Hammer

 

There are tons of tools on the market to pull off oil filters, besides the wrench. They also have the cups and the pliers and some other variants.

 

Yep, and I like the cup versions connected to a 3/8" wrench with an extension. Quick and easy!

 

I feel like an idiot, I bought a wrench (figured I could use it the future anyways), come home, and the thing WOULD NOT work. There was so little room in there, especially with the headers, that the strap would slip before being able to close tightly enough to grip it. I tried it from all angles and it would not work even with the swivel handle. I ended up pounding through it with a screw driver. Messier, but it got the job done. Kinda defeats the purpose of trying keep it a little cleaner with the wrench though...

 

We have this oil filter tool at work that works great. I don't think i've seen them sold locally in parts stores but if you happen to come across it, pick it up. Works on pretty much anything except some of the full size chevy truck motors with the filter right up against the pan.

http://www.inter-bike.co.uk/inter-bi...ols/OFWUNI.jpg

 

I've had good luck turning the filter by hand using some sandpaper around the bottom of the filter so my grip doesn't slip... I have a filter wrench (cap style) but haven't used it in years...