Oil Filter Wrench Question

[murphy]

I'm a newbie here. Just acquired a a low mileage (22K) '96 ES300. Want to change the oil and filter, but the OEM filter defies removal. Can't seem to find this off size diameter wrench at local parts shops. What to do???

Would appreciate any help.

[steviej]

use one of those adjustable filter wrenches that tightens as you move the handle.

one thought is the "clench wrench" from sears.

I sow a guy once, stab the filter with a long screwdriver (in one side and out the other), then used the screwdriver as a handle to turn the entire filter. I recomend this as the ultimately last step after you have taken it to the dealer to see if they can't get it off.

Sounds like the previous owner got a little over zealous on the tightening.

steviej

[SKperformance]

yup sounds like some one used the wrench to tighten the filter

uinstead of only removing it

i have done the screwdriver a few times

and it is easy enough

[murphy]

Thanks for your thoughts. Going to try the clench wrench possibility. It's too tight a squeeze for a screwdriver removal.