Stuck Oil Filter
 

I last had the oil changed at the dealer on my 1989 300SE. This evening I took on the job myself but I could not remove the oil filter. I even broke the cap wrench while trying. Does anyone have an idea for getting this filter off?

Thank you.

George

Stcik a screwdriver through it and use it as a handle.

You could use a strap wrench. It has woven nylon
cord and a square end that you can put a socket on. I had to borrow one from my neighbor. It
was in his Renault tool kit.

Anyway, they are available at most auto parts
stores.

Gary

"BIG" pliers will also work. I think they are called waterpump pliers, the kind that are adjustable.

Thanks for the responses, but I've tried every type of wrench; Cap Wrench, Oil Filter Pliers, Cam Wrench. This thing is on incredibly tight. What is the professional method for dealing with this problem? Keep in mind the limited room available for getting at this filter on the 300SE.

Thanks,
George

CJs screwdriver recommendation has worked for me in non-MB situations. This approach will work sometimes especially if you are tapping into the filter from the bottom. Unfortunately, you can sometimes paint yourself into a corner going this route as the filter can get chewed up.

GLMOYs strap wrench suggestion would be your best bet(my opinion), but you may be better off with an oil filter strap wrench vs. a strap wrench that features a long handle. The later type may not work because of limited room in the area you're working in.

I've seen oil filter strap wrenches at tool sites on the web. Don't recall the names of these sites.
You wrap the strap around the filter, then insert a long 3/8" or 1/2" extension into a connection and turn from above with a ratchet. Such a tool may be available at an auto parts store in your vicinity. Sears might be another place to look.

I used one by Mercedes, it is a cap type with screw on the the up and side. Sometime, I have to tighten the side screw to remove the filter. Call your dealer, it's only cost about $10.00 for the tool.

jack

I vote for the strap wrench also. I have taken off some very tight filters in very tight quarters using a strap. One caution though, there is a good chance of puncturing the filter, so once you put really heavy pressure to it, there may be no turning back.

I'd take it back to the dealer who did the dirty deed and demand that they loosen it up for you at no charge. There is no excuse for a professional to over tighten a filter. The danger is that the dummy has also over tightened the drain plug - and that is decidedly not a fun job to remove when that happens.

DEALER OIL CHANGE
 

GEORGE,I would call the dealer and demand that they come over with a flat bed and pick up my car and perform the oil change and also talk to the service manager or general manager re this problem also ask to speak to the tech AND ASK WHY he torques the filter to 1000lbs and ask him if KNOWS HOW TO USE A TORQUE WRENCH? then ask for my money back on this mb factory tech hack job:mad:

I'd give the dealer one chance to get it right...then I'd call Mercedes' 800 number and complain. Of course, I'd let the dealer know that was my plan...

Sorry to hear of your troubles...been there, and been annoyed too!

Apply heavy, STEADY pressure to wrench. Don't try to loosen in one big heave. The filter has to slowly release from the seal. FWIW. Good Luck.

Use a hammer and chizel by hitting on the ring at the base of the filter.(in the proper direction of course):D

Filter stuck
 

I wouldn't bother with the dealer. Just start doing your own oil changes. The strap wrench is the best idea. I have one that has proved invaluable. It has about a 2 and 1/2 inch nylon strap that is probably about 12,000 pounds test. It will get off just about any size spin on filter if you can find room to swing a 1/2 inch breaker bar or ratchet. Tapping it off with a chisel on the base plate will work, but getting to it for that is usually a problem. Get the strap; it will probably be the last filter wrench you will ever buy.

I let a garage change my oil and filter last time. I always do it my self but was just feeling lazy. Tonight I set out to do a simple 10 minute oil change. I bent my filter wrench. I used the time tested screwdriver method and bent one and still no movement. I brought out a monster screwdriver and finally got it to move about a 1/8 of a turn. Several holes and about 1 1/2 turns later I was able to get it loose enough to remove by hand. Never again!! I will always do it myself from now own. My Dad taught me how to install a filter when I was about 8 years old. It is too bad so called certified mechs can't get it right.