1997 4.0 Oil Filter Adapter Question...

[virgamanda]

I have a question about the oil filter adapter on a 1997 Explorer 4.0, it seems to be leaking a little from where it mounts to the engine. It looks like theres one bolt in the center thats right by the exhaust pipe. How in the heck do you get a wrench on this bolt, and can someone tell me exactly what size it is, it looks like maybe a 19mm or so. Could the bolt just be loose or the gasket leaking?

[TeamExploder]

dont know the size, but get a long extension or couple extensions with a ratchet

[virgamanda]

the head of the bolt is right in front of the exhaust flange pipe, theres no way to get a socket in there. I cant even get a wrench in there. I am thinking of grinding down the box end of a wrench to make it a little slimmer, maybe that would work.

[TeamExploder]

Hmm....I dunno....

[shorod]

Not familiar with the space limitations, but since you're talking a box end, maybe a crows foot socket would work?

-Rod