Oil Filter Housing Cap

[gerds_01]

I recently purchased a used 2006 XLS. I was changing the oil last week and the entire housing would spin when I tried to remove the cap. For this time around I just dropped the housing without draining the oil from it. Any suggestions on how to loosen the cap next time I change oil?

[inov8]

This sometimes happens to me. as well, probably because I rather liberally oil the housing seal (large O-ring) after replacing the filter element, and then just screw it in hand-tight (no leaks in more than 10 oil changes). Not draining the housing first just makes the job more messy; I don't see any other consequences. Some owners internionally never bother to remove the cap, to save time.

To remove the cap after the filter housing is removed, I hold the housing with a strap wrench while turning the cap with a 3/8" drive. When replacing the cap, I just tighen it approx 1/8 turn after it contacts the small seal ring. I hold the socket wrench near the center to minimize leverage and applied torque.