Vet

Changing my oil right now. Tried to remove the stock oil filter with my generic cast aluminum cup filter wrench (fits on end of 3/8" rachet). This same wrench has worked fine in the past on other typical GM oil filters. However, on my stock Delco 46 filter, the fit is sloppy and the wrench does not work well. Wrench does grab a bit but slips off too easily. Had to use a different method to get the filter off.

I'd like to pick up a good wrench that fits and grabs the Delco 46 filter nicely so that I can torque the new filter on well without dimpling it at all. Can someone recommend an exact make / model filter wrench that fits / works really well specifically on the 46 filter? Thanks.

I used to always tighten oil filters by hand which in many cases where the filter was very exposed worked out fine. But the C6 filter is somewhat shrouded by the oil pan, looks hard to get your hands / fingers around it, so I am not counting on torquing the new one on by hand.

Dave S

Whoa....I would be very careful of "torquing the filter on well". As you note, an oil filer should only be hand-tightened. Due to the filter location on the C6, the filter is hard to grap so a cap wrench can be used, but no more than 1/4 to 1/2 turn after it seats on the gasket. Not sure why you're having trouble with your existing cap wrench...the dimensions across the flats for the PF44/46 filters are all standard. You should be able to pick up one that fits at any parts store.

JmpnJckFlsh

The flat pattern on the PF46 is changed from the PF44...you'll need a new filter wrench.

Any auto supply store should stock generic stamped steel filter wrenches for 3/8" drive, one of which will fit. Go by the number their book lists, then confirm it by trying it on a PF46 (you might bring yours; some cheapos don't stock ACDelco and other brands do not necessarily have the same flat pattern). Incidentally, finding a cap wrench for a PF46 is easier than finding one for a PF44...the PF44 was superceded by the PF46, so nobody stocks PF44 filters or wrenches except the Forum dealers (UPF44).

I wouldn't worry about a make and model number...they are all made in China or Taiwan or Indonesia or someplace by some unknown manufacter.

Vet

Thanks guys. Good info. I'll head over to the local auto parts store and bring my PF46 along.

By the way I am aware that the filter should only be hand-tight... but indeed, it apears difficult to get a good grip on the filter by hand so the wrench will be needed to get it "snug". Certainly don't want it too loose either of course.

The original filter that was on there from the factory was TIGHT!... part of the reason why my existing wrench kept slipping off. But, if the wrench had gripped just a little better it would have worked. I'll go pick up a new wrench that grabs the PF46 really well.

calemasters

I got my wrench at PEP Boys. Fits perfect. Just take the AC Delco PF-46 filter with you to get one that fits correctly. Sorry, I do not have a part number.

orca1946

auto zone also has the fit for these

vettnutt

I use a strap wrench. It will fit any size filter...

Vet

I just installed my oil filter. As it turns out, I WAS able to install the filter properly with just my hand... no wrench needed. It was a little tough though, my fingers barely fit between the filter and the oil pan, scraped the skin above my fingernails a bit... but was able to turn the filter a good full turn after the point when the gasket just made contact... filter instructions say turn filter 3/4 to 1 turn past gasket contact. Filter torque felt better to me at one full turn.

I will still purchase the correct filter wrench for next time... will make life a little easier for getting the old filter off. I do have a heavy-duty strap-type wrench, but it's a bit bulky, a little tricky to get around the filter being that the pan is so close. I think a cap type wrench is easiest to use, and since they're so cheap, may as well.

Deep Silver C6 Z51

I found a cap style wrench for the UPF44 at Walmart. It is a perfect fit.

C6400hp

it was cheap $$ too.

SA HEAT

Me too (to take it off).... I have the one that fits over the filter for a 3/8" drive but the strap is easier since the filter is so easy to get to.

talldude67

Hand tighten to snug, then tighten 3/4 turn more...that's it. Now taking it off without a fil wrench is another question...

JmpnJckFlsh

I finally found a cap wrench for the UPF44, but I had to go to several places to find it. I had to have the steel one; none of that molded plastic for me.

About the third place I went to, I realized that none of these places stocked the PF44 anymore, and the ACDelco catalog didn't even list the PF44, only the PF46. I even asked my local Chevy parts guy about the PF44 or UPF44...none in stock.

The Clevite Kid

I invested in a small can of a Never-Seize type product with teflon powder instead of copper or nickel powder. I put a very small amount on my filter gaskets, and they come off relatively easily at the next oil and filter change. If I remember, I got it from McMaster Carr.

Lee, The Clevite Kid

Another Yellow

The cheap end caps are only 1 inch deep. Snap-on has one that is 1 1/2" deep and it does make a difference. It won't slip off. Part # is YA-995
Using the correct torque is more accurate than a half or 3/4 turn after the base makes contact. Torque spec is 18 lb.ft.

Frank

OnyxC6

When changing filters is it more desireable to pre-fill the filter?

Jagcvette

Plus I recommend you use a better oil filter, like K&N or Amsoil.

Another Yellow

It doesn't hurt. Oil pressure will come up more quickly, so that's better, but does it really make a difference?

Patman

I agree, both of those will flow much better than the AC Delco, and if you go with the K&N you get the added bonus of the nut on the bottom which makes for super easy removal.

VetVetter

Yup ... just make sure it has a knuckle and you are fine.