- My model of MX-5 is: NC
- I’m based near: __Gillingham
- I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: __Oil Filter size
During MX Parts recent sale weekend I decided to pick up a service kit as it will be coming up shortly so purchased the Mazda Oil and Air filters etc. as usual. I have always thought that the size of this oil filter is 76mm with 14 flutes and I can’t recall seeing anything to the contrary. Having recently also bought a 76mm 14F socket to make this job easier in future I am annoyed to find that it is too big, not by much, but still just spins on the filter. Have I got this all wrong or has there been a change. Any thoughts appreciated.
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There can be a myriad different size filters, it’s the threaded internal part of the filter that is critical not the outer diameter, as long as the sealing rubber, which can be flat or round, seals to the engine block face.
I have a garage full of different sized filters that will fit a multitude of engines.
Something like this which is adjustable should do, but if the original filter has been put on correctly it should with a good hand grip come off relatively easily.
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Many thanks safetymatch. I have noted the points you make and have ordered the wrench you mention. I appreciate that there can be many different sizes but as the filter I bought is a Mazda replacement part I am still slightly puzzled as I think I have seen that this item is 76mm in diameter. Trouble is I can’t actually recall where I am getting this information from!
Thanks again for your good advice.
Just measured 2 filters I had lying around. One is the newer replacement S550 prefix Korean made and the other the LF10-14-302A made in Thailand
S550 15 flats so cannot be measured A/F but approx 75mm
LF10 14 flats and 72.5 mm A/F
Might be too late now but, if I were to buy the three legged filter removal tool again (shown above) I’d get the one that does for motorbike filters. It removes filters lower than 70mm dia but does do a good range above 70mm too. I read somewhere that it’s better for the NC filter, usability, as in there ain’t much room under there. Machine Mart do one, in fact they do quite a few different types.
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Can confirm that the one I got from MX5 Parts is the second one you mention LF10 made in Thailand.
Three legged usually does the job but mine needs two hands to hold a preload on the legs so it grabs which is a faff. A proper sized box spanner type one would seem to be easier in use and when adding the additional partial turn to tighten after seal conntacts the mounting face
Just for the record I have come across where it was that I first received the (mis)information that a 76mm socket was required. It is in the Haynes Owners Workshop Manual covering MX-5’s from 2005 - 2015 page 1.6 para 5.9. I’d seen it there and bought one in preparation.