Oil filter bolt issue

[opie18]

Hey guys. Wanted to first thank everyone for the insight and help I have received from this forum so far. Here is the situation: Was doing a routine oil change and found that the oil filter bolt (what is supposed to be 12mm) is completely stripped, worn, and more round than hexagon shaped. I simply cannot get this thing off! To make matters worse, the warm weather is finally here in Chicago and I'm itching to ride.

I've tried filing the bolt but I've had no luck. The thing is pretty worn down now and loses it's "corners" after one swing of the wrench. I suppose the previous owner really torqued this thing on. I've ordered a new bolt, but here are my questions:

1) Would anyone recommend using a dremmel to cut the bolt off? If no, any suggestions how to get this thing off?

2) I understand the importance of changing the oil filter with every oil change, but I am not sure how much damage that could cause to these old bikes we ride. Any advice or opinions?

Thanks guys!

-Opie
1980 CB750K

[TOOLS1]

You could cut a slot in the end of the bolt with the dremel, and use a big screwdriver, but I would try a pipe wrench. I have had great success with them. They are designed to grip round objects, and turn them.
Also, you can get a replacement bolt that has a 17mm head. They do not strip as bad, but that bolt does not have to be torqued very tight. Just good, and snug.
TOOLS

[opie18]

Thanks tools. I'll give the pipe wrench a go. If not, I'll use the dremel to make a slot for the screwdriver.

Cheers

[sgtslag]

I've had success with a Vise-Grip Pliers, but Tools idea is better.

Torque on the filter bolt, for the DOHC's was 22-28 ft-lbs (I think).  I always went with 25 ft-lbs.  I always use a clicker torque wrench, and I always verify the torque specified in the FSM, choosing the middle value of the range, if any.

With regards to changing oil filters, I always changed mine, with every oil change.  By leaving the filter in place, you leave dirty oil in it, to mix with the new, clean oil.  Curious what your concern is.  Cheers!

[Re-run]

They switched to the 12mm bolt from the 17 because people were over torquing the bolt. Apparently the PO of your bike didn't get that memo. I would look for cracked threads on the oilpan bolt as well.

Or maybe it was the other way around, I forget. I would still check the oil pan bolt though.

[opie18]

Hey guys. Thanks for the help. I asked about the oil filter change simply because I am itching to ride until I can get this bolt off. I changed the oil, left the filter, and cruised without issue. Ordered a new 17mm bolt and will most likely take it to my local shop to drill out the bolt...I just cant get the thing off. Bolt and threads on the oil pan seem fine.

Cheers!

[shinyribs]

For what it's worth,I only change my filter every other oil change. Granted, I'm strict on my oil changes,so it never really gets funky or beat up, but I figure there's no way the filter is shot within 3,000 miles. Throwing away a filter and all those o-rings at every oil change seems a bit wasteful to me. And since the oil filter housing bolts can be a pain(as you can see) ,the less I mess with mine the happier I am.

Just my opinion on the matter. Others may strongly disagree.

[will e.]

Once took one off with a dremel but I don't recommend it.

I didn't know about them at the time but money is on left handed drill bits. I have a set and they're fantastic for removing broken bolts particularly the recessed ones in cam blocks. A large enough bit would have enough torque to make short work of a stuck oil filter bolt.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYvaPbX1sT4

If the guys at the shop have any tricks I would love to hear it.