guys- when changing your oil filter physically check that new filter. Is the seam joining the ''can'' to the end fully formed? Spin it and look for pinholes in the filter body. Look down inside it for any debris left inside from the assembly process. Look at the gasket- is it seated evenly and has no tears/splits? Now pre-oil the filter, you can put about 40% of the filter capacity in a side-mount filter without causing any mess. The MOST important thing in a filter change is to coat the gasket with new oil before installation. This will keep it from baking to the engine block and possibly causing you to have a double-gasket result during your next oil change. DON'T overtighten the filter, the 3/4 to 1 turn recommended is all it needs to seal properly- an overtightened filter gasket will pop out of place, split, or leak under pressure when you are in the worse possible place- out in the boonies. Also when buying your filter LOOK in the box at the store and ensure you are getting a NEW filter. I bought 3 filters at Wallyworld 2 years ago, got home and pulled one to use, someone had taken 2 used filters, drained and cleaned them up and returned them for a refund. Yep- 2 out of my 3 were USED....

 

Very sound advise!!

 

Great advice, TINMAN. I would also say that I don't buy important things like oil filters from Wal Mart, regardless of price. I get things like that from a small mom and pop auto parts store that's been in business for over 50 years. You're dead right about used stuff. I've had that same experience in the past, which is why I don't buy filters from Wally World anymore.