Heres my problem. I wanted to address it before I have to change my oil. When I put the 98 Wrangler motor in my Cherokee a few weeks ago I found that the oil filter was dang near impossible to get into position to screw on. I had to unbolt my motor mount, take a cherry picker and pull the motor up on that side then put the filter on. I know something is wrong but what? Is there a shorter filter for the wrangler? Maybe I should just put a remote mount kit in when I change the oil next time? Any ideas

 

Not sure but you may need to install an XJ filter adapter if the Wrangler type is different?

 

can you snap a pic real wuick so we can see what your saying? you may need a remote oil filter kit, but you may jest need the oil filter adapter off the xj original motor.

 

I will try to get a pic tomorrow. I visually did notice anything when I installed them but I know I didn't really pay attention to it very much.

 

I think the other guys have already headed you in the right direction..On the Wrangler the filter screws straight into the side of the block. On the Cherokee there is an adapter which screws into the block and then the oil filter is mounted onto the adapter facing towards the firewall or back of the vehicle.

 

I use a tall, 1QT filter on mine with no problems at all...
You trying to install from top or bottom? Cuz I know from the top is super simple. Never had a reason to try from the bottom...

 

I tried it from the bottom and top, and no go.

 

So where is that pic?

 

get a strap wrench from tractor supply

 

sounds like you need to replace the adapter, but without pics we really cant see what your saying.

 

Does your filter come straight out of the engine block? My guess is you’re missing the angle adaptor, as has been mentioned. Here is a picture of mine (looking up from the bottom with a crappy Fram filter) showing the angled adaptor I’m talking about.

 

imagine that... a fram oil filter. yea mine took awhile to get off my xj- the previous owner threw one on a couple weeks before i got it. it took my an hour or so and snapping the oil pressure sending unit to get it off. it eventually came off.

 

Darn. Are you me?

Been There, Done That.