I have '98 F-150, 4.2. I have been noticing that every time I change my oil, I have a build up of oil residue under the front end of my truck that seems to be coming from the oil filter (area), and am wondering why. I use Wix oil filters, and have noticed that whenever I remove the old filter, the gasket stays behind a majority of the time. I have also checked the filter mount, and haven't noticed any leaky areas, nor have I noticed any leaks or puddles on my driveway. Any ideas?

 

First, are you putting any oil on the oring of the new filter before installing it?
If not it could be starting to fold when tightening the filter and causing the leak, this would also cause it to stick when removing the filter.
Also, dont over tight the filter or under tighten. Hand tight should be good, but I have found sometimes I have had to go back and retighten a filter after it has been run to stop a leak.

Sled...

 

Sledd,
I have been oiling the gasket prior to installing the filter. As for tightening, I have been threading it on hand tight, and then snug it about a another half turn.

 

check to make sure there isn't an add'l O-ring stuck on the block from a previous filter. this has happened in the past to me.

 

After you install your new filter, lay under the truck for a little bit with the engine running and make sure the filter is on tight enough. I usually have to take mine farther than past hand tight than that.

 

Get under your truck and put your hand on the cross member part of the frame that runs under the engine. On my 97 with the 4.6 when I remove the oil filter some oil drips down onto this cross member. I use a hand full of paper towels to wipe the area down before I finish changing oil.
Your filter may not be leaking but the oil could be dripping from the frame to your garage floor.

 

Me too. I usually get mine almost as tight as my hands will let me. (according to how oily they are)

 

Yep,I only use Motorcraft filters and put the "death grip" tighten on them!