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Oil Filter, oil change

10K views 32 replies 10 participants last post by  meh92  
#1 ·
I've decided to start changing the oil at home instead of paying a garage. The only issue I am wondering about is the filter. I have an 07 4wd 3.7 and the filter looks like it might be hard to get at with a regulare filter wrench. Am I wrong? Is it pretty straight forward?
 
#6 ·
You do not need to remove the plastic skid plate. A short handle band wrench is what I use. You will notice that there is a little drain cup on top of the cross member that is intended to direct the spilled oil. Useless.
What I do is this: I cover the crossmember with a shopping bag, so it will take the brunt of the dripping oil when you remove the filter. Once the old filter is off and draining in the catch pan, dont dawdle getting the filter flange wiped down and the new filter on there. I don't think it ever actually stops dripping a little bit. LOL Just get the new filter in place so you can begin clean up.

Its not that bad, but the first time is messier than you will expect. Put cardboard down on the floor before you get started.
 
#11 ·
The plate is just 4 bolts, so it's not much trouble to remove and it will give you easier access for your first go- round. You have options for the tool as well. Like I said , I use a band wrench, others have mentioned the cup style adapter that will work fine too. Only thing I don't like about the gripper style is you have to be careful to not deform the new filter when installing. I have all 3 in the tool box, so it comes down to what works best for you.
Just be patient, wear latex gloves, and If you are prepared to make a mess you won't be disappointed. Do not wear your favorite shirt.
The next time will be way easier!
 
#14 ·
The plate is just 4 bolts, so it's not much trouble to remove and it will give you easier access for your first go- round. You have options for the tool as well. Like I said , I use a band wrench, others have mentioned the cup style adapter that will work fine too. Only thing I don't like about the gripper style is you have to be careful to not deform the new filter when installing. I have all 3 in the tool box, so it comes down to what works best for you.
Just be patient, wear latex gloves, and If you are prepared to make a mess you won't be disappointed. Do not wear your favorite shirt.
The next time will be way easier!
Looking at it again I think the cup with a ratchet is the way to go,, Thanks, I'll get one
 
#19 ·
Funny how some people like to use opportunities like this to show how superior they are. If you don't have any short cuts why do you bother commenting? Because you can now show how smart you are? I'm 68 and a retired carpenter that can do most repairs on the house and motorcycle and truck, but have never felt the need to do the oil change on this truck since owning it and was surprised the oil filter looked like it was so hard to get at. Was wondering if maybe the bash plate came off to make it easier or something. I didn't call you to ask your advice big shot and wasn't talking to you
 
#26 ·
For peace of mind, just go somewhere and have them change your oil and filter for you.
Besides, removing the drain plug is probably too complicated for you as well.
For peace of mind, just go somewhere and have them change your oil and filter for you.
Besides, removing the drain plug is probably too complicated for you as well.
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You and skydive probably take bubble baths together and tell each other how irritating it is to answer questions no one asked of you, I just changed it had to take off the bash plate,other than that not bad. But you two smug ashols I could never figure out people like you that butt into a conversation then act like it is a bother, didn't ask you and don't want your oppinion
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#31 ·
I have an oversized snap on channel lock type pliers that I can reach up at an angle to grab the bottom of the filter to remove. My truck is a 4x4 as well. Heed Dragons advice, the plastic cup on the frame won't catch much so his bag trick is a good one. Or you could remove the 4 bolts on the skid plate to gain access. It would be a good time to clean all the the crud that accumulates on the inside of the skid plate.