roadfrog

I have always done my own oil changes, My LS will be no different. However, I see that a SST is required (or is it?), for removal of the oil filter. Has anyone done it without? I have a strap wrench that "SHOULD" work.....but??? My local auto parts vendor seems to think that any filter wrench should work.

Anyone??

Nospinzone

It's all in here, including pics.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...iy-thread.html

tyrenfroe

Get the SST (there are several high-quality, reasonably-priced ones available through the usual online channels). The tool makes removal and reinstall of the filter housing a snap. Why pound a nail with pliers when a hammer is readily available?

jiceoo

I like that, but no its not a required tool. I used a regular filter wrench, but the SST is on my list of tools to get

jlawr

Pictures won't open.

tyrenfroe

Here's

Here's

a link to a VERY well-made, inexpensive SST for Toyota/Lexus filter housings.

Additional info: I bought mine some time ago, and mine does indeed have the 3/8" drive hole and the large hex as pictured. More recent purchasers have complained that the drive hole is no longer provided and they have down-rated the product accordingly. As always, buyer beware!

Lexus4me

Thanks for the link. Another tool to add to my collection for our car.

Nospinzone

Hmmmm, I guess someone didn't pay their dues.

Try this one -

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...ght=oil+change

roadfrog

I just found one on the Walmart website for 17 dollars. Either way, plenty affordable. I expected any SST to cost much more.

jiceoo

Just left Walmart getting candy for the kids Valentine's Day party, oh well I'll go pick one up tomorrow.

tyrenfroe

Be careful! There are any number of Toyota/Lexus oil filter "wrenches" that are cheaply made and will quickly fail under normal use. You want a tool that is cast with substantial metal thickness rather than one that is a thin stamping. The former will do its job forever; the latter will deform and fail you in short order. As always, caveat emptor, but there is really no need to spend more than $20-$25 USD on a proper oil filter housing SST.

roadfrog

Yes of course. However, the one I referred was an Assenmacher.

tyrenfroe

Decent brand, but as I recall, Assenmacher filter wrenches don't have slots cut in them to grip the tabs on the filter housing. You're only gripping flats with flats. I like the grabbing the tabs as well. YMMV.

DenS460

i cant open this thread. Says I don't have permission.

Striker223

Please dear god buy the one with notches to engage the tabs. People ALWAYS try to avoid using the tool and ruin things, you also really don't have to tighten these that much at all upon reinstall. Do not set it to godlike torque levels please