If you haven't found success with the first 15 responses, might I recommend you try what I use on my M103. I have a NAPA oil filter wrench that fits on a 3/8" ratchet. It has two hardened black arms that are linked to a cam type base. When you turn the system clockwise, it opens up tha arms. When turned ccw, the arms tighten. I've never seen this wrench slip and I agree with the fellow who said steady, hard pressure will win the day.

If there are bets being laid, I'd wager that no oil was used on the gasket and the filter was not overtorqued very much on install. How many mechanics do you know that will hurt themselves to do something the wrong way? And I've never seen ANYBODY put an oil filter on with an air wrench! Although it does paint an amusing picture, doesn't it?

Good luck. Let us know how it goes.

Sorry for the late reply everybody, but I was out of town for a week, and I didn't take the Benz. Anyhow, I appreciate all of the good advice. I did use all of the filter wrench suggestions, to no avail. I thought for sure I would get it with the strap wrench and a huge break bar that I purchased, but it would just not move. My "gearhead" neighbor even tried to help out but he was stumped as well.

The screwdriver method is curious, but the last thing I want is a busted filter, that still won't budge, and then needing to tow the car just to have the filter changed.

So, the filter looks pretty beat up but still works. I put fresh oil in the engine and will happily let it become the dealer's problem, when I can get an appointment!!!

Again, I really appreciate all of the sound advice.

Best Regards,
George

__________________
2004 E320 Wagon
1989 300SE
1998 Range Rover 4.0 SE

Wow!!! I've never seen a filter that would not
come off. I've seen them on so tight that the
motor flexes at the mounts just before they
break free.

It might be a good idea to have them
check the nipple which the filter screws on for
any damage when the Dealer gets it off. Sounds
like it may be an air chizel job on the filter
for him.

Let us know of the outcome,

Gary

I would be concerned driving with a "beat up" filter. Try to get it changed as soon as you can. The thing that concerns me is the potential disturbance of the oil passages through the filter. You may not be getting the filtration that you need.

__________________
Jim

The German word for filter is "Stück."

No, I'm not joking.

- Nathan
'83 240D "Steiner"
'00 New Beetle TDI

George,

It should be the dealer's problem at the first place. They were the people who overtightened the oil filter.

David