How to inspect your engine oil filter

Summary

This video offers a guide on inspecting a used oil filter, a crucial task for high-mileage or older vehicles. The presenter advises checking the filter every other oil change to detect potential engine issues early, like metal shavings, which could signal impending engine failure. The video demonstrates how to safely open the filter with sheet metal cutters to avoid introducing external particles. It also shares a personal story of a Nissan Frontier with over 220,000 miles, where using Lucas Oil Stabilizer after finding metal particles extended the engine's life. The inspection process is detailed, emphasizing the importance of early detection and maintenance to prevent costly repairs.

Takeaways

• 🔧 Regularly inspecting your used oil filter is recommended, especially for high mileage or older cars.
• 🔍 Doing this inspection every other oil change can help detect issues early, such as metal shavings that indicate engine trouble.
• 🚗 The presence of metal particles in the oil is a sign that engine failure is imminent, and immediate action is required.
• 🛠 Using products like Lucas Oil Stabilizer can help extend the life of an engine with high mileage.
• 📈 The story of a 2007 Nissan Frontier with a high mileage engine that started knocking illustrates the importance of early detection and maintenance.
• ✂️ To inspect the oil filter, use sheet metal cutters or snips to avoid introducing external particles into the filter.
• 🚫 Avoid using power tools or grinders as they can introduce contaminants into the filter.
• 🔬 The video demonstrates how to cut open the filter and inspect the contents for signs of engine wear or issues.
• 🛑 If you find questionable particles, it could indicate a need for engine repairs or part replacements.
• 💡 Catch cans can help reduce the amount of ethanol that gets into the oil when using E85 fuel.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of inspecting a used oil filter?

The main purpose is to check for any metal shavings or particles that could indicate issues inside the engine, potentially catching problems before they lead to engine failure.

How often should one inspect their used oil filter, especially if they have a high mileage or older car?

It is recommended to inspect the used oil filter every other oil change for high mileage or older cars to monitor the condition of the engine.

What is the significance of finding metal particles in the oil filter?

Finding metal particles in the oil filter is a sign that there might be wear or damage inside the engine, which could lead to engine failure if not addressed.

How did the use of Lucas Oil Stabilizer help the 2007 Nissan Frontier with a high mileage?

The use of Lucas Oil Stabilizer helped the high mileage engine by reducing knocking sounds and extending the life of the engine for almost another year before it eventually failed.

What tool is recommended for opening the oil filter to avoid introducing new particles?

Sheet metal cutters or snips are recommended instead of power tools or grinders to prevent introducing new particles from the outside into the filter.

Why is it important to avoid using a power tool like a grinder when opening an oil filter?

Using a power tool like a grinder could introduce metal particles from the tool itself into the filter, which could then enter the engine oil and cause damage.

What does the speaker suggest doing after using E85 fuel in a vehicle?

The speaker suggests replacing the oil after each track day when using E85 fuel, as ethanol can get past the piston rings and into the oil.

What is the function of the holes in the oil filter as described in the script?

The holes in the oil filter allow the oil to flow into the filter, pass through the filtering media, and then exit through the middle to be returned to the engine.

What does the speaker mean when he refers to the 'thrust bearing' in the context of the oil filter inspection?

The speaker is referring to the part of the engine that allows for a small amount of play in the crankshaft to prevent excessive wear, and he speculates that a black substance found could be related to the thrust bearing.

What precaution does the speaker take while cutting open the oil filter?

The speaker uses a table to press the filter down while cutting to ensure stability and control during the process, and he also warns about the risk of cutting oneself, indicating the need for care during this operation.