Oil Drain

hub cap wrench

How to Remove an Oil Filter with a Wrench 

An oil cap wrench is a vital tool when you need to change an oil filter. Of course, this is a task that few look forward to, especially when doing it for the first time. Then, some believe changing or removing an oil filter should only be done by a professional. While a mechanic would easily remove the oil filter, you can do it too.  

So, how can you remove an oil filter with a simple wrench? 

Remove the Drain Plug 

When it comes to removing or changing an oil filter, you will need a few simple tools, such as a wrench. Like a hub cap wrench, a wrench is a necessity because it’ll make the job far easier for you. So, you will have to drain any old oil from the engine or tank.  

So, place an oil pan underneath your vehicle and remove the drain plug. It’ll drain the old oil from the engine which is a necessity to change over the filter. Remember, if you don’t put a pan underneath the oil filter, you may get oil across the engine or over you. So, it’s necessary to use a pan to catch any loose oil. Just remember to use a reliable oil cap wrench to help make the job easier.  

Get an Oil Filter Wrench  

If you want to get the job done right, you need the right tools. Like a hub cap wrench, an oil filter wrench can be the best tool when dealing with oil filters. So, take the oil filter wrench and carefully remove the old filter. There may be some oil left over on the filter just be wary not to touch it as it could be hot. So, put the old filter to one side once it’s removed from the vehicle.  

Install the New Filter 

Once the old filter has been removed, it’s time to put in the new one. So, you would put the filter into the gap left by the old one. Make sure you tighten it to secure the filter in place. Of course, you want to leave some slack so that it’s easy to remove at a later date. This is easy enough to do and with an oil cap wrench, the job will go much smoother too.  

Should You Call on A Mechanic to Remove the Oil Filter? 

A lot of people believe removing or changing oil filters is difficult and not something you should do yourself. Fortunately, it is possible to remove the old filter without mechanical intervention. Of course, if you aren’t able to do so or just don’t have the confidence, then you should call on a mechanic. It’ll make life easier for you and ensure things go right. Just remember to use the right tools. For instance, a hub cap wrench is best for hub caps and oil wrenches are best for removing filters. 

Make the Switch Easier for You 

Removing an old oil filter is far simpler than you think. With an oil cap wrench and some know-how, the job is a piece of cake. That is why most people can easily remove the oil filter without having to rely on a mechanic. Just remember, you need the right tools to make the task go quicker. So, grab your oil cap wrench and toolset and get going.  

hub cap wrench

What are the Different Types of Wheel Hub caps

Choosing a wheel hub cap isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly. You must have skills, have a hub cap wrench in hand and approach this with a clear mind and a little know-how to get the right hub cap. There are several types of hub caps and picking just one comes down to your vehicle and preferences. You need to consider your budget, the style of the oil cup, and more. So, what are the various types of wheel hubcaps and how can you decide which is the best for your vehicle?

Wheel Covers and Hubcaps Are Different Things

A lot of people confuse wheel covers for hubcaps, but these are quite different from one another. For instanchand an e, wheel covers are used to protect the entire wheel’s surface. An oil cap protects the wheel hub. It’s important to know the differences, especially when you’re buying hubcaps in Cypress, TX. The terms wheel covers and hubcaps are often interchanged, so you have to be doubly sure before you know what you’re buying.

The Bolt-On oil cap

Another popular oil cap choice is the bolt-on variety. Bolt-on hubcaps require lug nuts and bolts to secure the hub into place. It does mean you must install the oil cap correctly to ensure it’s safe during your drive.

The Clip-On Hub cap

Clip-on hubcaps are a popular choice because they can easily attach themselves to the wheel. There is a groove ready to be slotted into place which makes the clip-on an easy option to work with. Plus, you don’t need any additional attachment features or tools. That’s the beauty of these hubs. However, they will be secure to ensure the wheel is protected.

The Metal oil cap

These hub caps are great because when you’re restoring a vintage car, you want a close replacement of the previous ones. Metal oil caps were popular back in the day, but unfortunately, they’ve been quickly replaced by plastic. While it might take a while to find the right hubcap, the metal options can be viable in many ways. You get a perfect finish to your restored classic car.

The OEM Hubcap

Choosing an OEM hubcap can be useful if you need a specific style of dimension. These hubcaps often come with factory emblems and will match your vehicle too. At Valcrum LLC, you can get the right hubcaps for all your needs. It is important, however, to ensure you pick the right hubcap for your vehicle.

Choose the Right oil caps

It’s important to understand that oil caps vary. Some offer a more classic feel than others, so you want to choose a hubcap that’s suitable for your vehicle. For instance, if you’re restoring a vintage car from the 1960s, you may want a metal hubcap to complete the look. On the other hand, if you’re choosing an oil cap for your trailer, a modern clip-on might be best.

Make the Smart Choice

oil caps come in many forms and it’s crucial to choose a style that is best for your vehicle. You want something that is in line with your current vehicle and that works for your budget as well. Fortunately, you have your hub cap wrench in hands and choices to select the right hubcaps for your truck.

How Do You Remove a Stuck Oil Drain Plug from Your Car?

How Do You Remove a Stuck Oil Drain Plug from Your Car?

Trying to differentiate an oil drain plug from a hub cap wrench isn’t always straightforward for those who know very little about vehicles. Choosing the DIY route is incredibly useful because finances are stretched beyond limits. Removing a stuck oil drain plug, however, needs a lot of patience and care. You can’t just go into this heavy-handed as it’s likely to cause all sorts of problems; so, you need to approach this with a cautious mind and a little know-how. So, what do you need to know about removing a stuck oil drain plug from your car?

Warm Your Car Up

You should heat the engine for a few minutes to try and loosen the drain plug. This could make it a lot easier to get a grip on the situation. Don’t keep the car running for long, however, as it’ll be far too hot to work on. A few minutes should be sufficient. So, locate the plug and try to loosen it. Typically, it’s easier to work with an engine when it’s warm and you might find it easier to remove the plug. Unfortunately, it might not be as simple as you hoped.

Apply Penetrating Oil on the Plug

Sometimes, the plug is not ready to move, regardless of what you do to it. When you have a stubborn drain plug, you need to be a bit more forceful with it. So, apply a penetrating oil around the plug and let it sit for two or three hours. This should work its way through the drain plug and hopefully loosen a few things. Take a mallet to the plug and gently tap it to loosen it. Don’t be overly enthusiastic with the mallet otherwise, you’ll damage the plug, and it may never get unstuck. An oil cap wrench could be a useful substitute if you don’t have a mallet at hand.

Grease and Tools

Grease and Tools

Socket wrenches or gator grips could help loosen the drain plug; however, you have to be careful with these. You can’t be too heavy-handed in your approach; you need to be firm but gentle. Remember, if you’re too rough you’ll damage the oil drain plug and might need to pay for repairs. You should also lubricate the plug to encourage it to loosen up. You can read about How to Remove an Oil Filter without a Wrench – 4 Methods to Choose From by clicking here.

Call in a Professional

Stuck oil drain plugs are troublesome issues. In most cases, you’ll be able to coax it loose; unfortunately, that’s not always the case. When you have exhausted your options, you may want to call a professional for help. Mechanics have seen it all and they should be able to resolve the issue without too much trouble. You can also read about Overview of automotive engine friction and reduction trends–Effects of surface, material, and lubricant-additive technologies by visiting https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40544-016-0107-9

Resolve the Problem

There are ways to remove a stuck oil drain plug from a car, including using grease and wrenches, heating the engine, and applying penetrating oil. Sometimes, these things will work, and you won’t have to call in a mechanic. Unfortunately, if these methods fail, you will need to call in a professional. Fortunately, it isn’t too expensive and can resolve the problem quickly. Like a hub cap wrench, the right tools to fix the problem.