R1150RT Oil Filter Problem

[Mr. Frank]

The last time I changed my oil and again when I changed it today, turning the oil filter was much different than I am used to. With my previous two BMW's and cars I've worked on, the filter turns freely until the gasket contacts the block. On this bike the filter is relatively hard to turn right after the threads catch. There is no way to sense when the gasket contacts. Has anybody else had this experience?

[BMWRich58]

Has anybody else had this experience?

Nope. But it sounds like something could be cross threaded. :dunno

[DarkCloud]

Were you using a BMW oil filter?

There may be a problem with the threads. The resistance you felt tightening the filter may have been new threads being cut on the filter. I'd pull the filter and check it out.

I got a spin on filter once with no threads. JON

[jdiaz]

My K1200RS did the same thing, so I sold it and went back to a K75. :)

[fish]

I also vote for cross-threaded. My RT filter spins on the same as my GS, which is as you would expect...smooth, then you feel it getting tighter when the gasket touches the case.

Important note: Do be careful not to overtorque the filter. It doesn't take much - 11Nm.

[Mr. Frank]

I think it is OK now. One guy suggested the old gasket from the dealer oil change might be up there. I pulled the filter and looked up from underneath the engine. Everything looked fine. I took the gasket off the new BMW filter and hand screwed it on to check the threads. It turned many times with little resistance. I put the gasket back on and reinstalled the filter. This time it felt normal -- a couple of no resistance turns and then the gasket grounding. I snugged up and started the engine. No leaks. Perhaps the threads were gunked up or the cold fitting was smaller than when it is hot.

[basketcase]

My vote (based on experience and my 7th grade science teacher's lesson on metalurgy) goes to the tighter fit when hot.

So how does the R model oil change compare to sticking your hand upside the crankcase of a K? Quicker or slower, more tedious or easier, etc.?

[Mr. Frank]

The oilhead is WAY easier and much less messy. That's why I was so upset at problems with the filter.

[kbasa]

Did you fill the filter before installation, Frank? That's one of the things I like about Kbikes and Oilheads; you can fill the filter before install and have full oil pressure faster.

[Mr. Frank]

Yep. I always do that. It makes it a bit of a balancing act as you raise it into position, though.