What tool to use to cut open an oil filter ?

[max2k1]

So what's the tool of choice that folks are using to cut open filters ?
I see some really clean cuts made by posters here (esp. Bill in Utah)

What do these tools cost ? I hope to get something reasonably priced -- I want to cut filters primarily to satisfy my curiosity about what's inside the filter that I use. (and to post cool photos here

)

 

[The_Champ]

If I was you, I'd try a hack saw. There's no motorized parts to sling oil everywhere, and if you have a good blade on there, it should cut through the canister easily.

 

[Dominic]

filter cutters are available on summit racing.

 

[Pablo]

I got the Summit one. Cut a whole mess of old filters open. Didn't see anything too exciting so I didn't take pictures

I had a coupon or credit or something when I bought it, so it didn't cost me an appendage or an arm. I think it's $3X or so...shipped.

The only drawback is with tiny filters.

 

[jazztrumpet216]

Hack saws work quite well. More than adequate for the person who will only be cutting 1 or 2 filters open. Of course, if you get addicted, you might want to look into that filter cutter....

 

[Bill in Utah]

Quote:

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So what's the tool of choice that folks are using to cut open filters ?
I see some really clean cuts made by posters here (esp. Bill in Utah )

What do these tools cost ? I hope to get something reasonably priced -- I want to cut filters primarily to satisfy my curiosity about what's inside the filter that I use. (and to post cool photos here

)

---

Someone call?

Works for me... (plus you can use it for other stuff)

Take care, bill

 

[robl]

ha you beat me to it, that is exactly what i use, my dremel, i love it. works very well. Just cut one open actually about 3 hours ago

 

[ewetho]

Look up aviation tools they sell filter cutter as it is required part of inspections. Several different designs.

 

[gene_c]

How about your wife's Black and Decker power can opener ).

 

[Greggy_D]

At China Freight, they sell the No. 3 pipe cutter that works pretty well.

 

[froggy81500]

i just use a hacksaw with the filter in my bench vise and keep turning it a little at a time.

 

[crazyoildude]

Dremel
Was doing it that way for years back in the day when a dremel lasted for years..

 

[daman]

The problem with them dremels are when using them little cut off wheels the wheels don't last long(wear out fast) and leave shaving dust behind in the filter throwing off the inspection of the filter. I used one too at first then bought a tool from Jeggs,mutch better tool for the job.

 

[ZZman]

I have a cutter from Summit Racing that looks just like the above one. Works great.

Cost: $ 39.00

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-900510/

 

[Gary Allan]

I bought the Summit cutter. I think when I get flush in collector trinket kitty I'll opt for one of the AirWolf cutters

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/stylespilotshop_2067_1879807230

The problem that I run into, if you can call it that, is that the thinner cans tend to collapse and distort. I typically put them in a vise and you end up having a torque required vs. traction conflict. It's minor, but this type would allow a filter wrench to be used.

I guess I could use a filter wrench now and just hang the open end with the cutter over the edge of a bench, but then I wouldn't have the trickest cutter on BITOG

 

[Bill in Utah]

Here is the new tool I use to cut open filters (retired the Dremel)

$6 bucks at Habor Freight.

So far I've cut open a couple dozen filters with the same wheel. No problems.

I don't have any problems with debris in the filters I've cut open.

Take care, bill

 

[Gary Allan]

Ah ..a zinger. They're air hogs ..but are a useful tool at times.

 

[Bill in Utah]

Originally Posted By: Gary Allan
Ah ..a zinger. They're air hogs ..but are a useful tool at times.
I'd agree with you there.

But they cut open a filter quickly with little mess!

And of course, it's cheap that works so for me a excellent tool.

 

[FZ1]

Hey,Tex. Be curious about something else. I ain't cuttin' no filter open for no reason. Just gimmee an M1 or OEM filter.

 

[daman]

That size cut off tool will last yes the small ones i was talking burn up like paper, like my tool better,faster,less mess no air hose to chase all the time etc etc.