So here's one that's been bugging me since I started changing my car's engine oil: Is hand tightening the oil filter safe enough, or does it need a bit of an extra turn with a tool?
How tight should an oil filter be?
Aren't the instructions printed right on it? Usually you spin the filter on until the gasket makes contact and then give it another 3/4 turn. Make sure to rub some oil on the rubber first.
Is hand tightening the oil filter safe enough
Yes. This is the way I have always done it and have had zero issues. There isn't a great deal of pressure there. 50ish lbs, and the gasket seal holds it easily. Worst case scenario , you check it a little later and iff it seeps you tighten it up a bit, but I've never needed to. You don't need to superman it on there.
does it need a bit of an extra turn with a tool?
absolutely not. Be kind to the next guy (maybe you). Make it easy to remove by hand. I don't even need a tool to remove my filters.
Thanks Joe. I've always done it by hand and added a bit of oil to the rubber. Just wanted to make sure.
well there you go. Did it ever leak? if not, then why change?
Yeah, just hand tight. You can use an old piece of sandpaper for a little more grip if it’s greasy.
cool trick
I never thought of that, either. I'll try it on my next oil change.