cutting oil filter open after engine build

[Rooftop Special]

Hey Guys,

I just changed my oil after the first 500 miles after the build. I've read that I should cut the filter open and inspect it. I assume I'm looking for metallic looking debris. Do I just take a hacksaw to it? I would think this would create metal pieces throughout that I could confuse for an issue? Don't really want to buy a special tool but if I have to I will.

Thanks in advance,

Casey

PS. Just got done doing an oil cooler. Turned out really good. Haven't gotten before/after #s yet but when I do I'll post. Won't have before/after #s for towing but I should be able to tell a difference in unloaded #s.

 

[2004LB7]

Use a large pipe cutter

 

[kidturbo]

Yes filter cutting tool you mentioned, or a pipe cutter. Anything else will introduce metal shavings into the filter.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G890A using Tapatalk

 

[LBZ]

I cut filters all the time with a hacksaw. If you put the filter on it’s side and ignore the metal in the top inch or two from where you made the cut then you will find what you are after. Usually any particles will be trapped deep in the pleats which is where you want to look anyways.

My experience is an oil sample will tell you the same thing and more in depth. If you are getting pieces big enough to see in your filter, then your engine has already had a catastrophic failure.

 

[2004LB7]

If you are getting pieces big enough to see in your filter, then your engine has already had a catastrophic failure.

^^ this

 

[torqued2dmax]

Hey Guys,

I just changed my oil after the first 500 miles after the build. I've read that I should cut the filter open and inspect it. I assume I'm looking for metallic looking debris. Do I just take a hacksaw to it? I would think this would create metal pieces throughout that I could confuse for an issue? Don't really want to buy a special tool but if I have to I will.

Thanks in advance,

Casey

PS. Just got done doing an oil cooler. Turned out really good. Haven't gotten before/after #s yet but when I do I'll post. Won't have before/after #s for towing but I should be able to tell a difference in unloaded #s.

You had some of us afraid because we have not heard from you , glad to hear it is running !!!

 

[ironmax]

I've had good luck with using a angle grinder with a thin disk, cutting right at the fold..put filter in a vise, cut just enough material away to leave a thin layer of metal intact then twist or pry the top off. Its quicker than a hack saw anyway.

Sent from my SM-J337A using Tapatalk

 

[Rooftop Special]

I've had good luck with using a angle grinder with a thin disk, cutting right at the fold..put filter in a vise, cut just enough material away to leave a thin layer of metal intact then twist or pry the top off. Its quicker than a hack saw anyway.

Sent from my SM-J337A using Tapatalk

I'll give this a shot. Thank you. Do I just need to inspect the first filter after break in? I've read to expect potential metallics because of the rings seating, etc. If that's expected what exactly am i looking for?

 

[wilsondiesel]

I use a bit that was with my air hammer set to buz the filter can open

 

[Chevy1925]

I'll give this a shot. Thank you. Do I just need to inspect the first filter after break in? I've read to expect potential metallics because of the rings seating, etc. If that's expected what exactly am i looking for?

I open every one of mine up. I have 60k on my engine. I only change the oil once or twice a year though as it doesn’t get many miles.

Your looking for bearing material or an excessive amount of metal in the filter element. You will want to cut the paper element out and fan it out as well.

 

[Leadfoot]

I'll give this a shot. Thank you. Do I just need to inspect the first filter after break in? I've read to expect potential metallics because of the rings seating, etc. If that's expected what exactly am i looking for?

The guys who have built DMax motors and inspected filters would be best to answer, but I do know on many of the Pulling Truck motors my buddy builds, the amount of shiny material found in the first filter change can depend A LOT on the materials and clearances used (hard vs soft bearings, ring types, etc).

Many run a remote filter setup with a removeable screen that can be inspected and cleaned after 1 or several runs:

https://www.obergfilters.com/

And I know I've seen some motors with a TON of shiny crap come out after break-in, but go on to last a long time in a pretty punishing environment...

FWIW