oil filter tension

flumpy7 · Could Be A Chat Bot Joined: 31 May 2008 Karma :

Hi guys, i have always had bikes that i have used simply as work hacks and have serviced them myself. As i was never particularly concerned about keeping them nice i always used to tighten new oil filters to hand tight, and it never seemed to be a problem. I have just picked up a 1999 suzuki gsx75-f katana that is immaculate and only 12000 on the clock. I would like to try and keep it unspoiled and was just wondering do i really need a filter wrench or is it safe to just keep using my hands? Thanks in advance[/quote][/list]

Kickstart · The Oracle Joined: 04 Feb 2002 Karma :

Hi

Generally probably best to just use your hands. Torque on them isn't much and over doing them will result in them being pigs to get off.

The wrench can make removing the filters easier though.

All the best

Keith
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Wafer_Thin_Ham · Super Spammer Joined: 18 Nov 2005 Karma :

As Kickstart says personally I just use my hands.

I use a filter wrench to get them off.

After you've hand tightened it and filled it with oil just give it a quick run up to check for leaks, and to re-check the oil level after you've run it. If you're really worried about it coming undo you could always put a hose clip around the filter and then lockwire to a nearby bolt, but I've never bothered on road bikes.
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Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :

In addition to what has already been said I always put a thin coating of oil on the O-ring on the filter so it doesn't seize to the engine block and make it impossible to remove.
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stinkwheel · Bovine Proctologist Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :

Also make sure you're removed the old o-ring from the block before spinning the new filter on or you'll find out just how high the flow rate of your oil pump is when you first blip the throttle (high enough to empty the sump in about 5 seconds!) Embarassed

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Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :

flumpy7 · Could Be A Chat Bot Joined: 31 May 2008 Karma :

thanks guys.....hands it is!