I break the freaking O-ring on the filter housing when I screw it back on. Every bloody time! I lube it, turn it on super slow, doesn't matter. The O-ring still breaks. Put another one on and it always works the second time. Is there some trick or something that I'm missing.

 

just lube it up.....some folks have had issues with some aftermarket filters having O-rings that are slightly over/undersized....maybe you got a bad batch?!

 

only had that problem once and since then

1. Only use OEM filters myself . . .

2. As others have said - lube the o-ring which is a no brainer ... but: be sure the filter element is pressed down HARD into the housing. It needs to get ALL THE WAY DOWN - BUT not so far as to crush it.

3. As you insert the can back onto the housing on the motor, press down hard as you turn. You are fighting a spring and maybe the not yet seated filter. PUSH DOWN HARD as you turn the can. Then I get a few turns and feel the o-ring fetch up and on a good day can actually get the can all the way down flush altho USUALLY I need to finish up with a click or two from a ratchet

 

MINI OEM filters are the
best for me. When replacing
one, just press the housing
down lightly and turn it in
the opposite direction (anti-
clock wise) until the threads
click, then turn it on as usual.
This will ensure the threads mate
and are not damaged. After tightening,
wipe the area clean of any oil, and watch
for any oil leaks. Good luck with your MINI.

 

use OEM for the correct size and put some oil on it.

 

You can also try a light coating of grease....

I also suggest using the factory filter, I've never had a problem with them.

 

No problems with the OEM filters/O-rings here, either. In fact, the OEM O-ring fits so tightly in its groove that I usually have to remove it with a dental pick or similar tool when it comes time to replace it.

 

Aftermarket filters are a risk. Even the name brands. I always use factory. Also, remove the oring and lube it all over. Even some wheel bearing grease would be OK. And make sure you smear the mating surface on the engine with oil or grease as well.

 

I use Hastings filters and have never had a problem. In fact, put a Hastings next to an OEM and youll probably never use an OEM again.

 

I am using OEM filters, lubing and doing basically all those things and it still ends up breaking the ring?? Guess I'll have to be even more careful next time, obviously I'm doing something wrong but for the life of me I don't know what.

 

Stretch the new O Ring AS LITTLE as possible when installing it. Use fresh engine oil. And yes use OEM filters ... see this discussion with pic --> http://sizeminiclub.freeforums.org/a...t-see-t60.html

You can alos cheat a little.... Obviously you change the boil when the oil is warm. The filter housing is made of Aluminium so when you pull it out it should be fairly hot. Take the filter out a pour in some room temperature water. let it sit for 10 seconds and you will see the housing is now pretty cool. Spray it out with brake Kleen and this will dry out all the water. Now the housing/can is cooler and there for slightly smaller than the carrier/housing side its going into on the engine. It should go in even easier to thread on and seat the O Ring. But again do not stretch that O ring at all