Filter Cap Wrench For Wix Filter

Just bought three new filters for my new Tacoma. They are actually Napa Gold #1348 which is made by Wix and is the exact same filter as a Wix 51348. Problem is I don't have a cap wrench ( disc which slips over end of filter and accepts a 3/8 drive extension) that will fit these filters. I have about a half dozen cap wrenches for various filters and none will fit the 51348. I also was in Advance auto parts and had the 51348 in my hand and none of the caps they sold would fit the 51348 either. Haven't even looked at the access to the filter which is mounted on the 2.7 liter engine to see if a strap wrench would easily do the job. So I guess my question is where did anyone find a cap wrench that fits this particular filter?

 

This is my personal favourite style

 

I have one of these don't can't get it to work due to lack of room to use it. I went to NAPA and they had an adjustable "wrench" that fit over the top of the filter that you use along with your ratchet. Worked great. Under $9.00


Oil Filter Wrench - Three Jaw
Part Number: BK 7769018

 

Well I checked out the access. It could be worse but there is some shield or something relatively close to the filter. would love to find a cap wrench for the Wix/Napa Gold filter as then I would just stick with that brand for life of the vehicle. I actually left an email message with the folks at Wix. Maybe they will respond with the size required for that particular filter. Wix makes a damn good filter so I am surprised more people on here don't use them. It is same filter # for either the 4 cyl or the six cyl.
Summit has a couple that are similar to the cap wrench but work for maybe a 3/4 inch range in filter diameter. But I am unclear whether or not they can be used for both removal and installation?

 

You don't need a wrench to put the filter in. Hand tight, then 1/4 turn. Be sure to rub some oil on the seal first.

I got a filter wrench at a Napa store. Took the filter in with me and tried them until I found one that fit.

 

Here is an interesting one. Wonder if it grips in both removal and installation. its a Lisle tool. Made in USA at least. Variable from approx. 2.5 inch to 3.25 inch or so.

 

I've seen the 3-prong type used at my dealer:

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-universal-oil-filter-wrench-auto-adjustable/p-02820523000P

 

I use the Craftsman tool when I can't spin it off by hand.

For installation, NEVER EVER use a wrench, especially not a compression type wrench like the Craftsman or strap.

As tight as you can get it by hand is more than enough. Glove up with Nitril and you'll have plenty of grip to get 1/2 to 3/4 turn after contact, and that's all you need.

 

THIS! 1,000 times THIS! Never use a tool to tighten an oil filter.

 

Anyone ever try using one of these tools, the first photo by Proto, for removing an oil filter?

How about the second photo, from Toyota on their new 'cartridge' oil filters?

 

The first one seems to work okay. We had a bunch of returns when I worked auto parts in the 80s, but I suspect the customers were trying to use them to install the filter.
The 2nd one is going to be pretty specific... and with Toyota moving to the cartridge type filters on new design engines, obsolete unless that IS the tool for the cartridge fittings.

 

Never use a wrench to install. It will be over tightened.

 

I always use a cap wrench and they are never over tightened. A oil filter should be rotated 2/3 of one revolution after the gasket makes contact with the block. Makes no difference if that is accomplished by hand or with the aid of a wrench. I've been installing oil filters for 40 years. Think I've got it by now!!!!!

 

It's just not needed. You can get a FULL turn by hand if you like.
The advice to avoid wrenches when installing is twofold... the issue of going on too tight, which I agree, you can easily avoid... but with the compression style tools, they may damage the filter. Modern filter cans are thinner than they used to be and it seems like they are getting thinner every few years. Used to take a fair amount of effort to crush a filter, and it's now possible to put a good dent in one with your hand.

Ya, if you insist on using a tool for installation, the cap wrench is the only way to do it.

 

This is the exact same tool I use to REMOVE REGULAR OIL FILTERS, I install with my hands. Now with the new Toyota cartridge style oil filters I use the special tool for both removal and tightening. For tightening though I only tighten the cap till it is seated all the way. I don't tighten it till it doesn't go any further. The cartridge style cap wrench I use I bought from the Snap On guy at our dealership. It's all one piece cast aluminum.

 

Won't have to worry about cartridge-style filters until Toyota decides to stop playing cheap and put the dual-VVTi 1GR in the Taco.

 

I think the Corolla has it on the 4-banger.

 

oil filter pliers from Autozone... it works like magic...

 

Next time you buy filters, consider the Wix 51516 - about an inch longer than the 51348. All other specs are the same and Napa has an equivalent Gold filter. Only time I used a wrench was very first oil change - when filter was installed at the factory the gasket was NOT lubed. Also I remove the engine cover to make access to the filter a little easier. Never use a wrench to install the filter. Another trick is pull the dipstick before draining, then after refilling the stick is a little easier to read since more oil drains out of the dipstick tube.

 

I have one of these and it works great. I Have used them on several different vehicles and no complaints yet.