Oil-filter wrench

Oil-filter wrench
Chain-type oil-filter wrench. The chain is wrapped around a spin-on oil filter, and the hexagonal bar is turned anticlockwise to grip and unscrew the filter.
Strap-type oil-filter wrench. A ratchet is used to turn it.
Strap-type oil-filter wrench. This one has a handle built in.
Socket-type oil-filter wrench. It fits over the end of the filter and is turned with a ratchet. It is made of stamped steel.

An oil-filter wrench is a tool for removing spin-on type oil filters. These filters are smooth, cylindrical canisters with knurling on the bottom that are difficult to grip, especially when they are oily.

One common type of wrench is shown on the right. The loop of chain is placed around the filter, and the bar is turned anticlockwise by hand until the chain wraps itself tightly around the filter. A socket wrench or adjustable spanner is then used to turn the hexagonal bar further in the same direction. This increases the tension in the chain, which bites into the soft metal casing of the oil filter which helps prevent slippage.

Another type uses a metal band that is attached at both ends to a handle. The looped band is placed around the filter and the handle is turned anticlockwise, which puts tension on the band, causing it to grip the filter.

A third common type of wrench utilizes a metal or plastic cup that is shaped much like a socket. The cup is placed on the end of the filter, which engages the knurling. A socket or wrench is then used to loosen the filter. Volkswagen Group and BMW cars require this type of wrench to remove their filters (or the lid of the filter housing, where a non-cartridge filter is used).

Finally, a "claw" type of wrench, manufactured by Sykes-Pickavant and others, has three geared metal prongs and accommodates a (typically) 3/8" ratchet driver. As the driver is turned anticlockwise the gears make the prongs clench the filter body harder. This type is very effective on tight filters and can be used in more confined spaces than a strap or chain type.

K&N has designed their oil filters so that removal and installation can be done with a 3/4" or 19mm socket or wrench.


Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.

Игры ⚽ Нужен реферат?

Look at other dictionaries:

  • oil filter wrench — A special automotive tool for the removal and installation of oil filters; they come in a variety of shapes, e.g., as strap wrenches, chain wrenches, or special cup style end cap oil filter wrenches …   Dictionary of automotive terms

  • filter wrench — An oil filter wrench for removing the oil filter. Also see chain filter wrench oil filter wrench …   Dictionary of automotive terms

  • Oil filter — Spin on oil filter on a Saab 9 5 An oil filter is a filter designed to remove contaminants from engine oil, transmission oil, lubricating oil, or hydraulic oil. Oil filters are used in many different types of hydraulic machinery. A chief use of… …   Wikipedia

  • chain filter wrench — A chain wrench which encircles the oil filter to assist in its removal …   Dictionary of automotive terms

  • Wrench — For other uses, see Wrench (disambiguation). A set of chrome vanadium metric wrenches, open at one end, box/ring at the other. This type is commonly known as a combination wrench. A wrench or spanner is a tool used to provide grip and mechanical… …   Wikipedia

  • wrench — [1] A device for removing nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. [2] A colloquial term for a mechanic or someone who is handy repairing engines. [3] To use a wrench tool. See adjustable wrench Allen wrench box wrench brake adjusting wrench brake… …   Dictionary of automotive terms

  • filter — [1] A device designed to remove foreign substances or particles from air, oil, gasoline, water, etc. [2] A device used either with the drier or as a separate unit to remove foreign material (contaminants) from the refrigerant Also see air cleaner …   Dictionary of automotive terms

  • Strap wrench — A strap wrench is any of various types of wrench that grip an object via a strap or chain being pulled in tension around it until it firmly grips. High static friction keeps it from slipping. Many strap wrenches have built in handles. Others are… …   Wikipedia

  • Vacuum cleaner — Cylinder vacuum cleaner for home use. French train vacuum cleaner …   Wikipedia

  • Chainsaw — For other uses, see Chainsaw (disambiguation). An arborist using a chainsaw to fell a eucalyptus tree A chainsaw (or chain saw) is a portable mechanical saw, powered by electricity, compressed air, hydraulic power, or most common …   Wikipedia

Share the article and excerpts

Direct link
Do a right-click on the link above
and select “Copy Link”