changing the oil on my 2005 Cooper - MINI2

cybermini · #1 (**permalink**) May 25th, 2009, 09:32 PM

May 2009

I tried to change the oil on my Cooper today .. but sadly couldn't loosen the filter cap. Is it threaded normally or reverse (tighten left instead of right)?

I bought a 36mm socket, but this jumbo unit + the 3/4" to 1/2" drive adapter made it too long with the wrench to fit in the limited space available. I tried with another adjustable wrench and even a nice oil filter remover that went around the entire head of the unit ... but I couldn't get the thing to budge. And I really thought I was using a lot of force...

Any secrets I need to know?

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

Blaine
Cincinnati, OH
2005 Cooper
Chili Red / back roof
black bonnet stripes

iain cooper · #2 (**permalink**) May 26th, 2009, 07:20 AM

I did my 07 cooper last year and had no problem...........do you know when the filter was last off ?

basically it's a plastic unit and you need to be aware of excessive force.

it is a normal thread and loosens to the left.

I would advise to apply a reasonable sustained force so that the rubber seal will give, ie don't expect it to move with straight away with masses of pressure.

try and use the socket and apply a nominal consistent force and hold it on for a minute or so.

good luck !!