Weeping Fiber Washer on Oil Filter

VelvetFoot

The fiber washer for the big nut on the top of a Westwood F80 is weeping. I tried cranking it down more, but I don't want to twist anything off. I also replaced the element and washers, looked for a burr (none), and the washer didn't appear cracked.

How tight do you crank down on these fiber washers? I don't want to twist anything off.

I'm thinking it might be the cause of an air bubble that forms when the unit is off for a while.

Thanks for any help.

rick in Alaska

Make sure that when you replaced the filter and the gasket that you have cleaned off any loose paint chips on the top of the filter.
Other than that, you should have to just snug them down somewhat tight. And make sure the leak is not coming from the tiny bleeder screw.
Rick

VelvetFoot

Thanks.

This filter was installed new in the fall.

Leak not coming from bleeder screw. Leak (weep) is through the fiber washer on the big bolt.

I wiped the mating surfaces down and used my finger to feel for burrs. But, I do believe the mating surface is epoxy painted-not sure-you'd think it'd be bare metal.

HVACNUT

Pick up a filter upgrade kit. Gives you a new canister, filter, bolt and gaskets.

VelvetFoot

The thing is new.

VelvetFoot

Noticed some oil near the bottom of the cap, near o-ring. Hadn't done that before. The little fiber washer was leaking. It wasn't tightened down extraordinarily tight before. Cranked down some more on that. Sure, it could be me I guess, but I'm becoming a non-fan of fiber washers.

Now, could it have been the little washer all along? Liquid is sneaky. I don't know. I'm thinking not, but we'll see I guess.