Oil Filter threads damaged

[olesmokie]

Hi
The picture below I think describes this perfectly
Some how the threads are damaged where the oil filter screws on. I spent nearly an hour trying to screw a new filter on, it seem to be impossible. At one point it seemed to be engaged but after less than a turn if came off.
I'm not sure what to do to either get a new filter on or repair the threads. I considered using a file or grinder (probably dremel style because now sure I'll get a 4 and a half inch angle grinder in there)to remove the offending 1mm or 2 of thread. But I was worried about contaminating the new oil with metal filings.

Cheer
Oles

 

[chris-the-gerbil]

Can you get a die on it and run that down to clean up the threads? Might be worth getting one to do as they are not that much assuming you can wait for one.

Otherwise if it's just for the start of the thread I've often had luck cleaning them up with a triangular needle file but I'd want to take the bracket off the engine onto the bench to do that.

 

[bankz5152]

Before replacing try and repair. You may be able to get a small file in, as mentioned above, to clean up the thread enough to get the thread back.

If you make it worse or it can't be done then replace it but at least you tried!

 

[neilly]

You do not say what engine it is.

If it was a 300tdi, I would look at removing the housing and do it on the bench. Unless you are a contortionist.

Last thing you want is the oil filter falling off because the threads are not right.

Cheers

 

[olesmokie]

I'm not really sure if the threads can be repaired if you look at the picture it as if only the first thread or 2 are damaged the rest seem to be in good condition. the damaged appears to be, the hollow bolt that goes into the oil filter, is cut through.

I've zoomed and cropped this image. Hopefully help you see the damage

 

[olesmokie]

its a 200TDi

 

[chris-the-gerbil]

That looks easily fixable with a file to me TBH. Once you have cut the offending bits away and reformed the thread as oon as you get a filter spun on it'll reform the thread properly and I don't think you'll have any problems.

 

[olesmokie]

Yeah, that's what I thought . the only real problem is I can't see the damage from under to car. If I remove the bonnet I might be able to see it from the top.

Should I be concerned about blocking up the hole to stop filling getting in?

 

[chris-the-gerbil]

If you are going to do it on the car, a gob of grease in the hole first. Clean it all out after you've finished filing. I like to take things off for ease of cleaning afterwards as well as the access issues but sometimes it's more hassle than it's worth...

 

[olesmokie]

not sure how to or if I can get the part off the car. My guess is its been on the car for a long time

 

[Flossie]

Take it off and do it on the bench, new gasket is cheap or a smear of blue holymor if you can't easily get a gasket local.
I think I've got a spare filter housing somewhere in my spares stash which I'd sell if you're proper stuck but you should be able to sort yours easily IF you take it off.

 

[The Mad Hat Man]

Get an old oil filter, cut down the threads a couple of times with a hacksaw and then use it as a thread chaser.

 

[Flossie]

^^ worth a try.

 

[Flossie]

2 bolts hold the housing on, you could leave the oil cooler pipes connected and let it drop down/ lift up to give better Access.
Pic of two bolt holes below.

 

[The Mad Hat Man]

^^^^^ Nice bits !

 

[Disco1BFG]

I wouldn't consider doing that on the car - one tiny piece of swarf in your oil, and your engine will need a bit more than a new filter housing!

Access isn't brilliant, but it's not horrific either - get yourself some sawdust on the floor to mop up the dribbles before you start - and clean the housing thoroughly with brake cleaner / petrol / etc., before you refit it .

 

[The Mad Hat Man]

better still do it orf the car.

 

[Oldseadog]

Get an old oil filter, cut down the threads a couple of times with a hacksaw and then use it as a thread chaser.

Cut the filter body off and thern cut slightly diagonally across the filter threads as that gives more room to collect any swarf, and fill the females with grease.
Then use a small pair of stilsons to run it up the thread.

 

[olesmokie]

Great thanks for the replies. I'll give it a go at getting it off. looks like the gasket PN is etc5276

 

[wammers]

Get yourself a thread file it will sort that in a couple of strokes.