Hmmmm - I have changed many, but on the 7000 and 4000. Never had any issues- always used a wrench I had - got from an auto parts store - that holds on to the bottom of the filter. You SHOULD be able to do it .....
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Have had some filters that I either didn't have a wrench for or didn't want to come off - last resort is to drive a screwdriver thru it take it off that way. That has ALWAYS worked!
. Channel lock pliers ,or even a pipe wrench can also work if you have space to get in there.
Good luck - don't give up !