Cutting open a filter

[katsdad]

What is the easiest and cleanest way to do this?

 

[VaderSS]

Use a large pipe cutter. Works like a tubing cutter, but bigger. You can rent them.

Cheapest way is to use a hack saw.

If you happen to have a lathe, you can use that.

 

[MNgopher]

I use a dremel tool with a cutting wheel. Seems to the job nicely...

 

[SteveD2]

If you're cutting open a used filter, freeze it first. The mess will be less.

Ken

 

[LarryM]

The best way is with an oil filter cutter. They're expensive, $75-$150, but they open the cannister like a can opener, with a rolling blade. This has the advantage of not leaving metal filings or chips. Cutting open your used filter is apparently SOP for aircraft mechanics, and that's where you'll find the cutters.

 

[LarryM]

I have an apology to make. After that last post, what did I do? I spent $12 at Harbor Freight for a pneumatic cutoff tool, and came home and started slicing open new filters.

I don't look forward to opening a used filter this way - 20,000 rpm may have used oil all over the room!