Removing Air Dryer Cartridge...

Take an Oil Filter wrench and put on it.

 

Actually I did that with mine. Made a makeshift strap wrench with a tow strap and a crowbar. Them buggers are tough to get apart.

 

You could try just pounding a screwdriver through the side of it and using it to break it loose. I've got a big pair of channellock oil filter pliers that usually do the trick: http://www.mytoolstore.com/chnnlock/oilfilt.html

I just put the new ones on hand tight, those pliers will crush them a little where it grips.

 

He is talking about the air drier, it sits inside a solid housing. You cannot damage the housing.

 

Its also a good idea to rebuild the purge valve while its apart.

 

My first one I bought, I did the same thing as you. Couldn't get it off for the life of me. So I just carried the cartridge in my truck until it was time for me oil change.

I went into Truck King in Amarillo. Told them that I needed that cartridge changed as well. They did it at no extra charge & used the same oil filter wrench that they used on my oil filter.

 

I have been looking all over for those! The Farm stores & Sears around here used to carry them, but now only stock the small ones that look like a toy in comparison to what is needed.