TR4/4A New oil filter

[Marla]

So when you replace the oil filter in a 1964 TR4 what is the best way to go about it?...from underneath or from the top?...it unbolts from the metal housing right?...Marla

 

[Geo Hahn]

I worked from above when I would have the car mostly on the garage floor - now, on a lift, I do it all from below.

But either way, it was much easier and less messy for me once I installed an adaptor to be able to use a modern spin-on filter. This one sold by Moss is typical:

https://www.mossmotors.com/graphics/products/PDF/635-828.pdf

Some prefer the original canister and that's okay - but for me it seemed like the 'Captain Hazelwood Oil Change' every time.

Too much time on my hands perhaps, but I even paint the spin-ons so they do not look so jarring under the bonnet:

 

[Marla]

They look cool...

 

[Mink]

Everything Geo said. I changed the paper element exactly once on my '62, cursing and swearing the entire time. Get the adaptor - you'll be glad you did.

 

[Marla]

Okay guys...ordered the adapter...thank you

 

[mrv8q]

On my '6, I had no problem using the spin-on adapter, but on my '3, i just can't bring myself to replacing the original parts. The old Purolator canister has been on there coming up on nearly 60 years, now. I would hate to separate them.

To answer Marla's question, I find it easier to pull off the front tire for a little better access; still, a messy job to be sure. But for a once a year chore...

Looks like a '60 Pontiac in Marla's avatar.

 

[Geo Hahn]

...To answer Marla's question, I find it easier to pull off the front tire for a little better access...

I can't visualize how that would help. Maybe this is on a TR6?

 

[mrv8q]

Geo, as I recall, a straighter shot to the side action of removing the canister.