Triumphrat

2trumpets · 07-04-2007, 04:35 PM

So, I changed my oil for the first time at home. (All other oil changes were done by the dealer). Anyway, as I don’t own a torque wrench I borrowed a friend’s. As I was tightening the filter I never heard the “click” when it reach its pounds/foot. Now it’s on so tight I can’t get it off without a pair of large channel locks. I have three questions for you:

1. Have I screwed up my bike by having a filter tightened waaaay too tight?

2. Should I bite the bullet and re-do my oil change?

3. Didn’t torque wrenches make a click sound when at torque?

Green01SprintST · 07-04-2007, 04:40 PM

Is your bike broken? Does it leak oil from the filter? No? Then quit screwing with it and go ride. Worry about getting the overtightened filter off when its time to change it. Remember, if it ain't broke don't fix it! When it comes time to change the filter you have a number of options to get it off. Strap wrench, regular old oil filter wrench, channel lock pliers (large), or if it is really stuck, drive a long screwdriver thru the case and turn it off that way. Messy but works every time.

Medic09 · 07-04-2007, 04:42 PM

Can't help you on the first two, because I'm too new to Sprints. When I've done identical stupid things on older bikes I've a) broken the oil pan-no mistaking that one! or b) been able to back off the bolt a bit for next time, albeit with some force.

As for torque wrenches; no, they don't all click. Mine subtley goes 'loose' for a moment before allowing one to continue and tighten to the point of stoopid and breaking things.

Edit: I second Green01's advice. Go ride! It'll be there to fight with next time. :-D

[ This message was edited by: Medic09 on 2007-07-04 14:47 ]

seumas · 07-04-2007, 05:26 PM

I just changed my oil today. Apparently somebody did the same thing to my oil filter. I ended up using the hammer and screwdriver trick to get the thing off.
As long as it's not leaking I wouldn't worry about it until it's time to change the oil again.

dolson · 07-04-2007, 05:57 PM

The same things apply.
1. Lube the gasket on the new filter with clean new engine oil. Just a dab will do ya.

2. For the life of me I can't see the reason to bother putting a wrench on a filter to tighten it up. Hand tighten and there won't be any worries of over torquing. The gasket really serves two purposes. 1. As a seal to protect from leaks. 2. It also acts like a lock washer preventing it from backing off. When the gasket surface touches the mating surface it seals then a little more torque will bind the gasket in one direction opposite to the removal direction. In removing the filter you actually are taking the gasket "over center" and the gasket can't be compressed to the point where it will do this easily. It needs some room to allow this further compression in the opposite direction to be able to release.

3. A good snug hand tight should be all that's necessary.

4. Any over torquing more than necessary can also distort the gasket causing leaks and further tightening will distort it more not helping the problem.

5. For those that need more info. Try tightening to gasket contact then 1/3 - 1/2 turn more should do it. This should seal and allow easy removal the next time.

6. Don't forget to lube the gasket.

Don

[ This message was edited by: dolson on 2007-07-04 15:58 ]

deller4210 · 07-04-2007, 07:34 PM

2trumpets, the dealers install oil filters to the toque specification which is "WAY TO TIGHT." Hand tight with an additional turn and you are good to go. For now I would just ride until it's time to replace the filter again and then enjoy the challenge of removing it. Have fun riding!
:-D

Medic09 · 07-04-2007, 07:50 PM

Based solely on my experience with other, older bikes Don's explanation sounds perfect.

The Honda manual, f'rinstance, gives torque measurements to use for the oil filter bolt on the old SOHCs. We all know from hard experience that it's way past overkill. We all do basically what Don described: a little oil on the gaskets and o-rings, hand tighten, then a tad more. The bolt on the SOHC does need a wrench, but *NEVER, EVER* use a ratchet or torque. A little snugging with a simple wrench is all it should get. Good for the next few thousand miles, till the next oil change. Same goes for drain bolts on those old bikes.

Sounds like not much has changed over the years or between manufacturers.

oldndumb · 07-04-2007, 08:05 PM

dolson is 100% correct. If you paid attention when reading his post, you would have noticed his use of the phrase "over torquing". That is what a torque wrench is for: to prevent over torquing. So, to use one on something that only requires hand tightening is asking for trouble.
And, for those of you who have not been trained on the proper use of a torque wrench, there is much info on the web.
I know I'll probably get flamed for the previous statement, so take your best shot. :-D

mdgore · 07-04-2007, 10:07 PM

I just finished changing the oil in my D650 (among other things), and I hand tighten the filter down, and then go 1/4 turn. I've never had any problems.

Like most people here, just leave it until the next oil change. Better yet, leave it for the dealership and they can have the fun of removing it.

2trumpets · 07-04-2007, 11:53 PM

Thanks all! :upthumb:

I'll just ride and then warn the dealer when the 24K service is due.

(I lubed the gasket)

[ This message was edited by: 2trumpets on 2007-07-04 21:58 ]