Newbie question - LJ73 Oil filter change (1 Viewer)

[pakaLJ73]

Hello everyone!

I’m planning to change the oil filter on my LJ73, but I’m not sure about the best way to access it. As you can see, the filter is visible behind the right front tire. Should I try to reach it from that side, or is it easier to access from underneath the engine?

I have a claw-type oil filter wrench. Would that work for this job, or would I be better off with something like a strap wrench?

Sorry for the newbie question, and thanks so much for your help!

 

[Rigster]

I would go for the strap wrench for those tighter areas with limited access. I have a mechanical "three fingered" one that you can use straight on, and it works "ok" but has a tendency to slip if you do not have it positioned perfectly.

The strap one works for me every time, even when changing out large diesel truck filters that I need to use 2 extensions just to reach the filter - and those filters are so big they hold nearly 2 quarts of oil - easy peasy.

 

[bj70bc]

best way is to retrofit a 1hdft... never have that problem again

sorry, i couldnt resist

 

[AirheadNut]

Toyota didn't do well with oil filter placement on many of their diesels from that era. Access can be challenging, and it doesn't help if the filter hasn't been changed in a while as they tend to get stuck on. A strap wrench is probably your best bet, but between the exhaust and brake lines you won't have much room to turn it.

A 1HD-T has even worse placement: the filter sits upside down at an angle and invariably pours oil all over the side of the engine every time it is removed.