How to cut open an oil filter and inspect.

How to cut open an oil filter and inspect.


I bought a inexpensive oil filter cutter from Ebay ($38 Shipped)

It is a decent enough tool, simple solid design, with rollers.

Twisted 3 times and the filter can was cut.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

It will leave a sharp edge on both the can and the filter mount.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

I cut the oil filter that came on a 1.8L BP Mazda engine

Mighty M4612

It has a rubber anti drain back.

I lifted the filter cartridge from the mounting plate.
Nasty as all get out.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Looking around it, I noticed a large rip to the core, This allowed unfiltered oil through the engine.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Also looking into the folds I saw metal flake

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Taking my pocketknife, I cut the filter media to remove the tin end caps.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Now the tear on both sides of the crimp.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

It also has a tin perforated core.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Now, unrolling the filter media, and looking at the bottom of the pleats, I can see just how much metal flake there is.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

At this point bearing damage would be a concern.

The whole engine should be pulled down and all oil galleys plugs and jets cleaned and inspected for metal debris in the oil galleys.