oil filter stuck
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 1,030
Likes: 80
From: Newburyport, MA
I finished my two-day oil change this afternoon. Per suggestion from here, I drilled 3 holes through my Harley oil filter cap, then drilled through these holes into the oil filter with screws. Came off with some work , but so did the threaded bolt that the oil filter screws into! Had to go out and get a specific socket size to re-install it. I called the Harley service department where the oil was last changed and conveyed my displeasure. Not sure if this was justified or not. I installed a K & N air filter, so now I can rest easy. I'll finish my winterizing tomorrow. Thanks again for the great help here!
Stage II
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Iceland
The filter on my Harley softail was severly stuck probably because it had been tightened with extensive and unessesary force. I tried every tool i could find which did not work partly because there is not enough space around the filter to fit these tools. The standard oil filter cap I could fit but that kept sliding on the filter. Eventually, after much frustration, I drilled three holes in the cap and attached it with screws to the filter. Worked without any problems and was a much safer alternative to the "just drive a screwdriver through it and twist it off" method.
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 953
Likes: 127
From: Rome, NY
It seems that they must teach "over tightening" oil filters as a lesson plan at HD! When I went to change mine out every wrench I tried slipped, so I rode it to my Bro-in-laws and we ended up having to unbolt the ABS unit to get enough force to even start it turning. He was like "WTF did you put this on with?" and I said the Dealer did it at the 1K service. I changed to a PCS-4C permanent filter, which they (hopefully) cleaned at the 5K service. I can't wait to try getting that one off. At least it has a nut on the end.
Stage II
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Iceland
ahh - I knew about the importance of putting a layer of oil on the gasket but that I did not know. Good point - Thanks !
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 1,070
Likes: 74
From: Los Angeles
Is this nuts? Are backyard mechanics lock-tight-ing these things on? Turned a 20 minute job into a full afternoon and still no luck. Going to try the 2-screw idea.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 1,626
Likes: 310
From: "Old Hangtown" Placerville Ca.
A strap wrench or large pair of channel locks will work.....
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 5,016
Likes: 277
From: East Tn Foot of The Dragon
Rocker B, the mechanics are better now. The OP is from 2010. He has it off now 