HAS ANYONE BEEN ABLE TO GET AT THE OIL FILTER FAIRLY EASILY?

THIS LOOKS TO BE A NIGHTMARE - VERY AWKWARD.

ANY GOOD IDEAS? OR IS IT WORTH THE $40 BUCKS TO GET IT DONE BY DODGE?

REGARDS,

 

from what i know about the new hemi's dodge changed their threads to metric making it harder to find the filters... they are not in the catalouges yet... give it time they will be readily available like other filters... for now get one from dodge or just have them do it... its your choice...

 

I think they are talking about geting to it on the motor not finding a new filter

 

If it is anything like my Dakota (which it is), then yes the first change will be a major PITA. From the factory the filters are put on so tight it is almost impossible to get off. I ended up using channel locks and completely destroying the filter before I got it off. The next oil change was easy as it wasnt torqued on there. Like TD said, they changed the threads on the filters. I found that out the hard way with STP oil filters. Even though most people dont like them, just get a fram because I know that they work, that is what I used so I didnt end up having the wrong one again.

 

to get to it you need to position your self the right way. standing at the left tire facing the right tire. use your left arm in front of the sway bar and reach up there. if it is too tight you need to get one of those spider oil filter wrench's and put it over the sway bar and a long extention and ratchet and put it between the hoses. I've done a few and you will have to kind get the handle of it. Its kinda like the Jeep liberty. but they are a PITA if you don't position yourself right.

 

Has anyone tried removing the drip pan under the filter to get access to the filter ? Had heard of someone doing this, guess the oil would just drip down and go where ever . does not sound like a big loss if this pan is taken off any thoughts. Looks like it would give you access to the filter.

 

I usually loosen it let it drip than take the drip tray off to remove it the rest of the way and put the new one on.I have big arms and there is no way in hell to squeeze it up there.

 

How the heck do you get that drip pan off without breaking it, I know there are 2 bolts holding it on, when I take these out I can't seem to be able to get the drip pan to come out
Winger 82

 

sometimes have to rmove the vent hose off the front differential to get the tray out.

 

has anyone tried removing the battery and box? does this give better access?