Oil & Fuel Changing TC24d Fuel Filter

pekabu · May 3, 2004

Any suggestions on how to accomplish this? The fuel filter is on extremely tight, and access is quite limited (FEL bracket). I needed to do something for the neigbor so I didn't want to break something. The rest of the fluid/filter changes was quite easy to do.

I thought JimG had the same issue with his TC24d but I couldn't find his post. I assume it standard threads? Lefty loosey, righty tighty? (I have an old mopar with backwards lugnut threads on one side). Always questioning myself.

Only dropped the oil filter wrench in the waste oil bucket 2 or three times. That thing won't be rusting up any time soon. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

jwstewar · May 4, 2004

OK, I thought I was the only one having this problem. Never heard anyone mention it. I used a pair of channel locks, but I don't like that solution. I'm still waiting on something better. At least you didn't do what I did last week and spill the over half of the oil that I had just drained out when I was trying to get the fuel filter off. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

djradz · May 4, 2004

How about these belt-type wrenches? They're patterned after old chain-type pipe wrenches but now use a hard rubber belt. They now sold in most hardware and home improvement stores and work extremely well on everything from kitchen jars, to twist on wood finish cans to oil filters. I've seen them available in a couple of sizes, but probably just about any would work for that filter. Best thing is, they're really cheap. I think my set of 3 was something like $9.99.

By the way, the fuel filter is one item I've never followed NH's recommendation on changing. I think on my old Ford 1720, for 600 hours, I changed it once. I've yet to change my 40D's. I figure, if it doesn't look dirty or have water or parrafin deposits, and my fuel has been reasonably pure, what is the point? Heck, most auto filters now last the life of the car.

jwstewar · May 4, 2004

I've got a couple of of the strap wrenches, but I don't think there is enough room in there for them to work. Thanks for the tip though.

AndyMA · May 4, 2004

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( How about these belt-type wrenches? )</font>

Sears sells these too. I use them to remove most of my filters. They come in various sizes and the little one fits in most anywhere. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Andy

jimg · May 4, 2004

Ah yes...the fuel filter. I havent yet had time to tackle mine but thought Id try a channel lock first. If that doesnt work I thought about getting a tooth spanner. I think it should fit the lugs on the bowl ring. Anyway, Ill let you know soon as I need to get that job completed.

markie61 · May 4, 2004

There are a couple different strap wrench sizes - I use the small one. If you get it on real tight, there is just enough travel on mine to get it finger-loose. If memory serves, I believe the threads to be counterclockwise/left to loosen as you look up from the ground at it.
Mark

OkeeDon · May 4, 2004

Here's a link to the thread where I described my frustration with this problem on my TC18. I tried several tools, including the strap tool, and nothing worked well. If you follow the thread down a few posts, you'll see attachments of pictures of tools, including the one I ended up buying.

As I mentioned in that thread, the first time seems to be the hardest, because the factory puts the fuel bowl on so darn tight.

pekabu · May 5, 2004

Thanks for the info Don. I remember someone going through this, but I couldn't remember who and failed in my search. I will attempt again this weekend.

Dave

jimg · May 5, 2004

Did you happen to try out a tooth spanner? It looks like it might work OK. Ive never seen a VG w/ jaws like the one pictured. Thanx for posting the thread pointer.