Clip on Oil Filter

I do NOT want to start a thread about the advantages/disadvantages of swapping the plastic for the metal oil filter housing.

I am curious about why there is that metal clip on the side of the plastic oil filter housing. Is it really intended to keep the housing from spinning off when off-roading? I say that since the metal filter normally used on non-off-road Toyota vehicles do not have the extra little “fin” for the clip.

I do not off-road, I use my 4R for my daily driver because I like the utility of the hatchback storage area and manual 4WD for winter. I am planning on installing the metal housing on my next oil change at 25K mi.

Again, please no discussion about plastic vs metal and TCCN opinions.

What is the feeling about the clip?

 

I think it’s more of a stop for the user tightening the cap.

 

Additional security for a small price.

 

A visual indicator of how much to tighten the filter. The filter if hand tightened will always stop where the indicator was prior to removing.
Also, acts as a security mechanism to prevent the filter housing from spinning off.

 

The metal housings aren't providing any real benefits over your plastic one. The only advantage is the weight savings to your wallet.

You can't tell me what to do.

 

Yup. Had one for whatever reason and swapped back to plastic. It was always fine.

 

I have completely ignored the clip on mine and so far my engine has not detonated.

 

I was super confused by the title... my first thought was: "well that doesn't sound very secure"

 

Thanks for respecting my request.

 

There's no way that clip is providing any extra security against loosening; it's simply not strong / springy / tough enough. I've always viewed it as a marker for how far to tighten since it lines up in the same place every time. Spin housing to tight and verify the clip is in the same position and you are good.

 

Yes. A marker. I ignore it because I use a torque wrench and tighten to spec.

 

Yeah, it’s strange. No way would Toyota put even an extra dollar into the car but it doesnt seem like it really serves any purpose. I’ve seen YT vids that imply it is to torque to the same place, but I would trust my torque wrench more and as for keeping it on, if torqued properly, what’s the worry? Especially for my use.