I am going to start changing my oil in my new '04 3V 5.4 FX4, but I am concerned with the oil filter. How tight should it be on the engine? A friend of mine was saying if it's too tight on the motor, it can be harmful. I am going to use the recommended Motorcraft FL-820S with the Motorcraft Synthetic Blend 5W-20. Thanks for your help.

 

Hand tight is all you need. Just remember to put some oil on the seal of the new filter before installing.

 

yup hand tight is right. only use the filter wrench to tale take them off. cranking it on with the wrench will ruin the rubber gasket and it will leak.

 

You can't over tighten it and cause damage. You will just make it hard to remove!! Hand tight is all you need. 1/4 turn past the gasket seating is all that is required. Your just looking for a leak free seal.