You Should Be Inspecting Your Oil Filters

Summary

In this video, the host demonstrates how to inspect an engine's condition by cutting open the oil filter post-change. Using a specialized tool, they dissect a filter from a recently acquired truck, revealing the presence of contaminants and fuel dilution, indicative of poor engine care. The process involves using magnets to collect metal shavings and a carburetor cleaner to expose any metal residue. The video concludes with a recommendation for regular filter inspections and a link to an alternative method using a paint or coffee filter.

Takeaways

• 🔧 Cutting open the oil filter after every oil change can reveal the condition of the engine's internal health.
• 🚚 The speaker is examining a filter from a newly acquired C15 truck to assess its maintenance history.
• 🔎 The engine was running rich, leading to fuel dilution which degrades the oil's additive properties, suggesting a potentially poor internal condition.
• 🧲 Magnets are used to catch metal shavings from the oil, indicating potential wear or damage within the engine.
• 🛠️ A specialized tool, akin to a 'giant can opener,' is used to cut open the oil filter for inspection.
• 🗑️ The oil residue is poured over the magnets to collect any contaminants, revealing the presence of 'crusty nasty stuff'.
• 🚫 The speaker notes that the engine was likely not well-maintained, with long oil change intervals and poor filtration.
• 🛑 The condition of the filter and oil indicates that the engine may have significant issues, such as worn cylinder heads and rings.
• 🔗 A link to another video is provided for an alternative method of inspecting oil filters using a paint or coffee filter.
• 🛒 The speaker recommends the oil filter cutter tool as a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to regularly inspect engine health.

Q & A

Why is cutting open the oil filter recommended after every oil change?

Cutting open the oil filter after every oil change is recommended to inspect the condition of the engine's internal components by analyzing the contaminants trapped within the filter.

What does the speaker plan to discover by inspecting the oil filter?

The speaker intends to discover how the engine has been treated by examining the contents of the oil filter, which can reveal the presence of contaminants and metal shavings.

What is the significance of the engine running rich mentioned in the script?

The engine running rich indicates that there is an excessive amount of fuel in the oil, which can lead to fuel dilution. This dilution breaks down the additive properties in the oil, potentially causing engine wear.

Why does the speaker use magnets when cutting open the oil filter?

The speaker uses magnets to catch any metal shavings that may be present in the oil as it is poured out of the filter. This makes it easier to detect small particles that might otherwise be difficult to see in dirty oil.

What tool does the speaker use to cut open the oil filter, and how does it work?

The speaker uses a specialized tool, likened to a giant can opener, designed to cut open oil filters. It is described as functional and effective for the task, despite being expensive.

How can one tell if the filter has picked up contaminants by examining it pleat by pleat?

By examining the filter pleat by pleat after it has drained, one can visually identify any contaminants or debris that may have been trapped within the filter's structure.

What does the speaker do with the magnet after the oil has been poured over it?

After pouring the oil over the magnet, the speaker inspects the magnet for any attracted material. The presence of gunkiness suggests metal particles, which are then further inspected by touch to discern any texture that might indicate metal shavings.

Why does the speaker use carburetor cleaner on the magnet?

The speaker uses carburetor cleaner to remove oil and residue from the magnet, leaving behind any magnetized or metallic material that can be more easily identified and analyzed.

What does the condition of the oil filter suggest about the engine's treatment?

The sludgy and nasty condition of the oil filter suggests that the engine has not been well-maintained, with long intervals between oil changes and possible lack of proper filtration.

What alternative method does the speaker mention for inspecting the oil filter?

The speaker mentions an alternative method using a paint-type filter or a coffee filter to catch any chunky, nasty material coming out of the oil filter, as demonstrated in a video by 'Piston Twisted Garage'.

Why is it beneficial to regularly inspect the oil filter as described in the script?

Regularly inspecting the oil filter helps in understanding the engine's health and maintenance needs, allowing for timely interventions to prevent potential issues and prolong the engine's life.