OIL FILTER REDUX

[jeedee]

Is there a secret to lining up a new oil filter with the screw post and screwing it on..? Engine is 3.0 L, where the filter plate is tucked under the exhaust manifold. When it's time for an oil change, I start to panic...last time took about a half hour to get the filter aligned for screw on. I approach from the top. Is there an ancient, little-known trick to this...? Thanx for any magic incantations.

 

[Roert42]

I just put my hand up there with the filter and feel around blindly. Once I have it over thread I try and hold it square in do a half turn backwards, then just whirl it on.

I always found that doing a half turn or so backwards helps keep from cross threading things as I am putting them together. No really sure why, just seems to help.

 

[Ranger850]

+1 ^^^^ the little backspin.

I usually do everything from the bottom, but that's just me.

 

[Blmpkn]

+3 for the little backspin. Once it "clicks" over the end of the threads start spinning it the right way.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

I always did it from the top because mine had a little plastic oil funnel thing under the filter so access was better from the top. It’s awkward and irritating on the 3.0, but with practice it’s usually not too bad. All of my other trucks use an FL-1A filter or the 820S (short FL-1A) and have it where it’s easier to deal with. I did an oil change on the 3.0 with the engine warm exactly once, after burning my hands on the exhaust manifold I said never again, truck will always be cold when I do this

 

[dvdswan]

Sometimes if you close your eyes, image the angle you're holding the filter, hold your tongue at the correct angle, and the stars align just right, it will spin on. +4 on the small backspin.

 

[jeedee]

Heh...heh. Now I don't feel so bad to hear the anguish from all you folks who replied. I had an idea of drawing on the manifold with a crayon, the exact center line of the old filter still in place. At least that would help the alignment. Will try the "backspin" method. Thanx to all for the tips.