Oil filter direction

Ok, so I know this seems silly, but I wasn't paying as close attention as I probably should have when I replaced the filter this last time.

I need to know which side the recessed part of the filter should be facing - towards the engine, or towards the front wheel? I can't seem to find any illustrations that show it clearly enough to be able to tell.

 

I just did this last week, and if I remember correctly the recessed side with spring faces AWAY from the engine, and the slightly-extended side should go toward the engine.

 

Yep. Filter goes in with the "indented" side facing out, away from the motor. Flat side goes against the motor, spring is in the cover pressing against the filter holding it against the motor.

Easiest way: Put the filter bolt into the housing; drop the spring and washer (yours is missing? so was everyone elses') onto the bolt, then the filter, "impression" side down toward the spring. Put the whole assemblage in place and start the bolt.

Yes, there is supposed to be a washer between the spring and the filter. Quite often (both my bikes came that way) the washer got discarded by a PO. IT'S NOT CRITICAL. It keeps the spring from pounding into the rubber; it will be fine but I would get one from chacal and install it on the next oil change.

 

Or get a spin-on filter kit from him instead and be done with the whole bloody mess ;-)

 

Sorry, I like the Buck Rogers fins on the filter housing. Another potentially shiny bit.

 

Fitz I never considered either of those aspects :lol: But I don't mind dealing with the housing.

 

here ya go Fitz

 

Ohhh, I like that ;-)