Shop Press

Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle.

From the creative minds at:

FEATURE STORY

Hot Off the Press

Dealers make house calls. Why not you?

I had a great experience recently when my dealer’s service department called to ask if I’d like to schedule some routine maintenance needed on my SUV from one of their fleet of nifty new mobile service vans, with the promise that my cost would be the same as if I...

Tire techs: Elevate your work with this one humble task

I have mounted and balanced many tires. I have also sold many tires, and there was a step I took when I was installing them that I insisted all techs did when I eventually began writing service. I’m going to share it here, and while I can’t insist upon anything from...

Tools beyond the basics for DIYers

Except when it comes to mountain bikes and drum kits, I’m frugal (read: cheap) by nature, so I’m not the kind of guy who would blow a chunk of change on tools that I will never use. I’m also keenly aware of the limitations of my skills when it comes to automotive...

Transfer cases: how to talk to your customers

The transfer case is an essential part of the part-time four-wheel drive system found on many traditional vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks. The customers you help at your service counter may well rely on vehicles with 4WD daily and understand the systems well. But...

Easy trick to transfer gear oil with a simple length of hose (VIDEO)

Description A fluid transfer pump is the cleanest and easiest way to fill a differential, transmission or transfer case with its necessary fluid. When you don’t have access to a pump, there’s another way to get the job done using supplies you probably already have in...

Bitten by a misfire

There are hundreds of great automotive technical schools around the country and they teach all the book lessons you need to know to start in this business. But nothing teaches better than real world experience. I consider myself a pretty good tech today and I got that...

Five tips for servicing cartridge-style oil filters

by | Aug 8, 2023

The oil change is supposed to be simple, right? And while the service guide is always your guide, there are a few things that pertain to servicing vehicles equipped with cartridge-style oil filters that aren’t always covered as well as they could be. Here’s a few tips on servicing them correctly that should be helpful for newer techs and a good reminder for more experienced mechanics.

1

Remove the filter before draining the oil

This is especially true when dealing with filters located on top of the engine. They engage an anti-drainback valve when installed and draining the crankcase before removing the filter will allow the dirtiest oil in the engine right back into the crankcase! If not caught, it could result in an overfilled crankcase and will certainly contaminate any new, clean oil added.

Photo of used cartridge filter

Always drain and remove a cartridge-style filter prior to draining the pan. Photo: Peter F Meier.

2

Use the right tool for the job

Tongue-and-groove pliers are not designed to remove the oil filter caps on cartridge filters. Use the right tool for the job to avoid damage to the cap or housing assembly. The tool will differ based on the car, but be assured tongue-and-groove pliers are always the wrong item. A small crack in either will lead to a big bill later.

3

Inspect the housing and cap for damage

With the filter cap removed, gently remove the O-ring(s) from the cap and note their location(s). Do not use a tool to remove the O-ring from the threaded portion of the cap. Clean the housing and cap and inspect carefully for any signs of damage. If in doubt, replace it.

On some designs, and on all spin-on filter designs, the sealing O-ring may be left behind on the engine when the filter is removed. Verify the seal has been removed with the filter to avoid accidentally installing the new seal on top of the old. Two rubber seals don’t seal at all, and it will only be a matter of time before the oil pressure in the engine blows all the oil out onto the pavement.

Make sure the new filter has everything you need, including the O-rings. Inspect the O-rings for defect prior to use. Photo: Peter F Meier.

4

Pay attention to the details

Open the new filter package and compare the contents to the ones removed. Carefully inspect the new O-ring(s) for signs of damage. If any are noted, exchange the filter and its O-rings for a replacement.

And never reuse an O-ring! Lubricate the new O-ring(s) with clean motor oil. Gently roll the new cap O-ring down over the threads, making sure it is fully seated in its groove. Never attempt to stretch the O-ring over the cap. With the O-ring in place, install the remaining components into the cap and install in the housing. If you see that the O-ring is getting caught in the threads, do not attempt to use it—replace it.

5

Apply proper torque

Cartridge filter caps have specific torque specs. Using the proper tool and your torque wrench, tighten it to spec and complete your installation as outlined by the OEM procedure.

By following these tips when dealing with cartridge filters, you’re ensuring your shop delivers top-notch maintenance and best practices to your customers—exactly the reason they turn to you.

The articles and other content contained on this site may contain links to third party websites. By clicking them, you consent to Dorman’s Website Use Agreement.

Related Articles

Shop Press Comment Policy

Participation in this forum is subject to Dorman’s Website Terms & Conditions. Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline feedback
View all comments

Get Articles In Your Inbox

Subscribe to receive a monthly email summary of our latest Shop Press stories.

Shop Press

I agree to the above privacy statement and T&Cs

Thanks! You're now subscribed.