Lawn mower filter wrench. How to Change Oil on a Murray Lawn Mower(7 Quick Steps)

Lawn mower filter wrench

Tightened oil filters can be difficult if not impossible to remove without a hand-driven oil filter wrench.

Why address this?

It can be a demoralizing experience. You have drained the oil and the oil filter is welded on and simply will not come off. You need to remove a jammed filter before the oil can be changed and the service completed.

How to address this?

There are three approaches to a jammed oil filter when an oil filter wrench is unavailable. There are two routes, destructive and nondestructive. Many people are nervous about doing this, as in the unlikely event that the problem should continue, the engine is then totally out of commission with a destroyed filter.

The first approach is to try to break the seal. Remember that the filter is not stuck on the threads but stuck on the compressed gasket between the filter and the block. If you can break that bond the filter will spin free easily. Try working in a single edged razor blade between the gasket and the block and slide it all the way around the gasket to break the seal.

If it is too tight you will have to take a more destructive route. Go round the edge of the filter with a heavy screwdriver and prize it away from the engine, like trying to take the lid off a tin. The filter is only tin so it bends easily but be careful, you don’t want to scar up the machined surface that the oil filter gasket presses against. The objective of both these approaches is to break the seal caused by the rubber ring, and if this is achieved the filter will then screw off by hand easily.

A large hose clip Photo: Courtesy of Jubilee

If that does not work you have a non-destructive approach which is to tighten a large slotted screw worm drive, better known as a hose clip or jubilee hose clip, around the filter. If you do not have one large enough a pair of smaller ones can be joined to encompass the filter. A layer of rubber or an old washing up glove under the jubilee hose clip will help it grip. Attach it as close to the base of the filter as you can. This is the strongest part of the canister and there is less risk of crushing it there.

Once tightened, the hose clip screw heads provide a place to tap with a hammer so as to drift the filter off. This always works but if for some reason you cannot stop the hose clips slipping, a couple of pop rivets through the jubilee clip and into the filter housing will absolutely hold it fast.

Using a hose clip to tap off a jammed oil filterPhoto: AdirondackNY

The last option is the most destructive route available. Take a hammer and drive a large screwdriver through the middle of the oil filter. Then use the additional purchase it affords to turn off the oil filter.This will work, but it leaves a huge mess and often totally destroys the filter leaving only the base attached. If the canister comes apart stick the screwdriver into the small holes around the threaded centre hole and drift it off with a hammer.

There are tools to release a jammed oil filter but the trick to avoiding this problem in the future is, when putting on the replacement filter, to stick your finger in the oil and run it all around the new rubber seal. Then just turn the new filter on by hand. The sealing is done entirely by the o-ring. The cap is torqued only to keep it from unscrewing. So typically, turn it till it is snug and give it a tug. hand tight, plus a ¼ turn. It won’t leak and will turn off easily by hand the next time you replace it. If you are any way unsure consult your engine manual.

Never uses an oil filter removal tool to tighten replacement oil filters.

With thanks to:

Tapping a filter off with a large hose clip

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Add your review or comment:

Ron Smith wrote this review on Dec 10th 2014: I am unfamiliar with the term jubilee, perhaps you could offer an alternative, for those of us from the colonies you know (Canada)

Average Rating: Unrated

Michael Harpur wrote this review on Nov 13th 2017: Thank you for your question. Apologies for not seeing it earlier. Hopefully, the video update and the images help make it clearer.

Average Rating: Unrated

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Copyright 2006. 2023

How to Change Oil on a Murray Lawn Mower(7 Quick Steps)

Changing the Oil in your Murray lawn mower is an important part of maintaining the health of your machine.

Regular oil changes help lubricate the engine’s moving parts, reduce friction, and prevent wear and tear.

Plus, fresh Oil can help your lawn mower run more smoothly and efficiently.

If you’re new to changing the Oil in your Murray lawn mower, don’t worry – it’s a relatively simple process that can be done in just a few steps.

How to Change Oil on a Murray Lawn Mower

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change the Oil in a Murray lawn mower:

Gather your supplies

Before you start the oil change process, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand.

You’ll need a new oil filter, a new oil drain pan, and a new oil filter wrench.

You’ll also need a new oil filter gasket, a new oil filter o-ring, and a new oil filter adapter.

Locate the oil filter.

The oil filter is typically located on the side of the engine, near the bottom. It’s a small, cylindrical component with a metal housing and a rubber seal.

Remove the old oil filter.

Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the old oil filter from the engine.

Be careful not to overtighten the wrench, as this can cause the filter to become stuck or damaged.

Once the filter is loose, gently twist it off the engine and discard it.

Install the new oil filter.

Take the new oil filter and place it onto the engine, ensuring it’s seated correctly.

Use the oil filter wrench to tighten the filter securely in place. Ensure the filter is tightened properly, but be careful not to overtighten it.

Locate the oil drain plug.

The oil drain plug is typically located near the bottom of the engine, near the oil filter. It’s a small metal component with a hexagonal head.

Drain the old Oil.

Use a socket wrench to loosen the oil drain plug. Once the plug is loose, gently twist it off the engine and let the old Oil drain into the oil drain pan.

Be careful not to spill any oil on the ground – it’s important to dispose of Oil properly to protect the environment.

Replace the oil drain plug.

Once the old Oil has drained completely, replace the oil drain plug by threading it back into the engine.

Use the socket wrench to tighten the plug securely in place.

Refill the engine with new Oil.

Carefully pour the new Oil into the engine, making sure not to overfill it.

Check the owner’s manual for the correct type of Oil and the recommended oil capacity for your Murray lawn mower.

Check the oil level.

Once the new Oil has been added, check the oil level using the dipstick. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.

If the oil level is too low, add more Oil until it reaches the correct level. If the oil level is too high, remove some oil until it reaches the correct level.

Dispose of the old Oil properly.

Once you’ve finished changing the Oil in your Murray lawn mower, it’s important to dispose of the old Oil properly.

Most auto parts stores and service centers have oil recycling programs, so you can simply bring your old Oil to one of these locations for proper disposal.

Changing the Oil in your Murray lawn mower is an important part of maintaining the health of your machine.

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How to Remove an Oil Filter Without a Wrench – 4 Easy-to-Follow Methods

Can’t find your wrench, and don’t know how to remove you oil filter without one? If not, don’t sweat it! If you don’t have a specialized wrench for removing your oil filter, all is not lost. Human ingenuity offers multiple ways to get the job done. Here are the 4 most tried, proven, and trusted techniques.

Last Updated: July 14, 2023

There are certain car maintenance tasks that require specialized tools. You can’t loosen bolts by hand, for example, or give your vehicle a boost without a jack.

In these cases, looking for substitutes is pointless and could be dangerous for both you and your car.

Some tasks, however, can be done without dedicated gadgets by adapting non-automotive tools that will deliver the same results. Removing an oil filter is one such task.

Whether it’s to add new engine oil or a new oil filter, you’ll learn several different “wrench-free” methods to remove your existing oil filter.

Ready to perform removal without having to shell out on a wrench? Read on to get started.

Key Takeaways

Safety First! – Make sure you always wear gloves and protective glasses or goggles.

Get Handy First – Try to remove your filter by hand first, then move on to other methods if this fails

If In Doubt… –…visit your mechanic. It will likely cost you less than any damage you might do to your vehicle if you get frustrated and go on the offensive.

“Wrenchless” Methods for Removing Your Existing Oil Filter

Enough small talk, let’s get to the meat of the article and show you how to get that oil filter out of your engine, despite not having the correct tool.

Following are four different methods, in order of what we see as which you should try first, and with the most destructive and messy option last.

Method 1: By Hand

There’s a chance that your own two hands might be the only equipment needed to complete the job. For those of you who are skeptical, give it a try and find out.

Remember the old saying, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained?” You could end up saving yourself the effort of making a substitute tool.

Note that this may not work for recessed filters if you have big hands.

Equipment Needed:

• Gloves (preferably rubber).
• Safety glasses.
• Disposable rags.
• Drain pan.
• A jack and jack stands

Safety First

You’re going to be getting up close and personal with your filter. Put on your gloves and glasses to protect your hands and eyes before getting started.

Jack Your Car

If you can’t access the filter while the car is level, jack it up. Remember to take care when doing this and position the jack correctly under the car. Once raised, replace the jack with jack stands.

As emphasized in our guide on How to Use Jack Stands, never work under a car supported only by a jack!

Position Yourself Carefully

It’s easier to steer clear of dripping lubricant when you have a wrench. With this technique, you don’t get that benefit, so take care to keep your face and torso away from the dripping zone.

Place Drainage Pan

Place your drainage oil pan to catch flowing motor oil as you normally would.

Remove Grease

Grease will make it more difficult for you to hold on without slipping. Get your rags out and wipe it off as best as you can.

Grab and Remove Oil Filter

Using your dominant hand, grasp the end of the filter firmly. Attempt to turn in a counter-clockwise motion. Use as much strength as you can muster.

If it was hand-screwed on by you or your mechanic previously, it might come off without additional tools.

If this doesn’t work, move on to our next solution.

Method 2: Belt Strap Wrench

If hand-removal wasn’t successful, don’t worry. You can create a wrench using a cheap, accessible item and a tool most people already own.

Equipment Needed:

• A belt.
• Rubber strip or sandpaper (optional).
• Gloves and safety glasses.
• Disposable rags.
• Drainage pan.
• A good car jack and jack stands (depending on the location of your unit).

Choosing the Right Belt

The belt is going to be doing all of the hard work. It’s important to pick one that’s suitable for the task at hand.

Look for materials that won’t rip under pressure, such as flexible plastics.

Excessive elasticity can be a bad feature too. If the material is too stretchy, you’ll have to put in more effort to get a tight grip.

On the same note, avoid purchasing a reversible belt. They often have mechanical pivots, which can break under pressure.

Shiny or smooth materials will slip, which makes for an ineffective grip. Pick a belt that has a rough interior.

You can also buy a rubber strip or piece of sandpaper to place between the filter and belt to increase grip and reduce the risk of slippage.

The strap and buckle should be securely attached to each other. Don’t pick belts that have adjustable buckles or complex mechanisms.

Get Prepared

Get your safety glasses and gloves on.

If needed, lift your vehicle up to the appropriate height and place it on jack stands.

Put your drainage pan in the right place to avoid making a mess.

Remove Excess Grease

Wipe away excess grease with your rags. Otherwise, your belt might slip and slide as you work.

Position Belt

Position the belt around the end of your filter. Hook the loose end through the buckle, but don’t fasten it. Instead, pull that end over the buckle again to create a cinch. Pull that end to tighten.

Before you start twisting, use your piece of rubber or sandpaper. Place your chosen material between your makeshift wrench and the filtration unit.

You may have to remove your gloves while you’re doing this. Don’t forget to put them back on as soon as you’re done.

Start Pulling

Pull the loose end counterclockwise. Keep your movements slow and steady so that the belt or friction material doesn’t slip off.

Continue this motion until the unit is loose enough to remove by hand.

Method 3: Make Your Own DIY Oil Filter Wrench

If you’re dealing with a stubborn unit (most filters apply!), the belt trick may have failed. If so, you have another option: make your own DIY wrench.

You should have half of what you’ll need in a standard toolkit: a socket wrench and extension. Next, you’ll need a bandana. If you don’t have one, they’re easy to find and buy.

Equipment Needed:

• Bandana.
• Socket wrench.
• Socket extension.
• Gloves and safety glasses.
• Disposable rags.
• Drainage pan.
• A Jack and jack stands (depending on the location of your unit).

Fold the Bandana

Fold your bandana by rolling it up until it resembles a strap. Imagine you’re preparing it to wear as a headband.

The end result should be a piece of cloth that can lie flat.

Make a Square Knot

Shape the bandana into a wide circle. Take the ends and tie a square knot, being careful not to shorten your strap too much.

For the readers who aren’t familiar with square knots, follow these steps:

• Hold the two bandana ends, one in each hand.
• Pass the right end over and underneath the left end, leaving a loop.
• Tuck the right end underneath the loop.
• Tighten it enough so that the knot won’t come undone. Leave some slack.

Set up a Socket Extension

Slip your socket extension through the slack part of the knot. If necessary, loosen it so that you can fit the tool through.

Now you can tighten the square knot. Make sure it’s secure around the socket extension.

Prepare Your Car

Put on your gloves and glasses. Lift your car with a jack if you have to, replace the jack with jack stands, and set up the drainage pan.

Make sure your socket extension and wrench are somewhere within reach. You don’t want to be doing acrobatics to grab them when the time comes.

Wipe Off Grease

Typical bandana material isn’t known for gripping strength. Wipe off excess lubricant from your old filter with your rags.

Set up the Bandana and Twist

Place the bandana around the filter and begin to twist the socket extension towards it. This motion will pull your makeshift strap tight.

Keep twisting until it’s as tight as it can get. Don’t release the socket extension or the whole thing will unravel.

Once it’s secure, rest the side of the extension against the filter you’re removing. Hold it in position with one hand.

Attach the Socket Wrench

Connect the wrench to the extension. Think, “right is tight, left is loose.”

Remove

Turn your makeshift strap wrench until the filter is loose enough to spin off by hand.

Method 4: Screwdriver Method

This is a last-resort tactic to remove stubborn units. If it won’t budge, stabbing a screwdriver through the filter is your only option aside from going to your mechanic.

Equipment Needed:

• A strong screwdriver.
• Gloves (preferably heavy-duty).
• Safety glasses.
• Drainage pan.
• Jack and jack stands (depending on the location of your unit).

Begin With the Basics

You know the drill. Get your car up on jacks and then onto jack stands if it’s hard for you to get underneath it.

Place your drainage pan and put your safety gear on.

Stab!

This step may sound uncomplicated, but it does require some care. Don’t go jabbing at your filter like a horror movie villain.

Aim the screwdriver at the middle of the filter from a sideways angle. If you’re working in a cramped space, be careful not to damage anything else on your car.

Pound it through the middle as hard as you can. You want the tip of the screwdriver to emerge on the other side.

Let the Oil Drain

Leave the tool as it is while the oil drains out.

Twist by Hand

Try giving the stuck unit a twist by hand. It should be loose enough to come off at this stage.

Rotate the Screwdriver

With units that still refuse to give, rotate the screwdriver a couple of times and try again.

If nothing has changed, it may be time to invest in a wrench or contact your mechanic. You can’t leave the replacement half-done.

Why Might You Need to Remove an Oil Filter Without a Wrench?

There are a couple of reasons why you might want to try removing your filtration unit without one:

Avoid Expense

Automotive tools can be expensive. There’s no shame in not being able to afford specialized kit when there are other solutions you can try.

Damaged or Lost Wrench

Maybe you were ready to start installing a new filter only to find your wrench broke in storage?

Another possibility is that you couldn’t find it at all, and don’t want to buy a new one to perform just a single task?

Incompatible Wrench

These tools are long-term investments and will last for years. However, you might end up with a redundant tool if you decide to buy a new car and it has a different type of filter on which the wrench no longer works.

There are many different types of oil filter wrenches, and not all work on all vehicles. To see the many different types (chain wrenches, spiders, straps, and more), check out our guide to the best oil filter wrenches.

For instance, your new oil filter might be too recessed for a larger model (e.g., pliers) to reach. Or if you’re doing a favor for a friend or family member, this could be a one-time need.

If you’re on a trip and need to change your filter and don’t have yours handy, you’re not about to go out and buy a brand-new wrench. Nobody wants to pay for something that will only be used once.

Wrapping Up

The next time you find yourself caught without the right tool, you’ll know how to remove an oil filter without a wrench, oil filter pliers, or torque wrench. We’re not suggesting that you make these methods a habit for every oil change, but this is handy information to have.

If you have any questions, thoughts or tips to add, please leave us a comment below. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to hearing from you!

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