Frank
Pre-takeoff checklist
I follow a few aviation forums and on one Jabiru Engine group two pilots reported that they had engine problems that led to emergency landings as a result of cracks in oil filters. In both cases stress risers led to cracks in five or fewer hours of flight after changing the filter. The oil then sprayed on the exhaust, causing dense smoke. I do not have any reason to believe their filters are less robust than others. Apparently the cracks were in one case a result of a dent and in the other scratches left by a filter wrench. I have not heard similar reports from more common GA engines, perhaps because filters have to meet some specs. Nonetheless, it makes sense to use tools that will not leave small cracks or scratches in your filters. Since changing your oil can be preventive maintenance, this might be a caution for a lot of us.