OT : E 46 Oil filter removal

[Zeuk in Oz]

I realise that this is the 5 series board but many of you seem to own E 46s as well as E 34s so I thought I would ask the question.
Was giving a mate of mine a hand with his 1999 318i (1.9 litre) and he could not remove the oil filter (cartridge type).
Enquiries at the stealer reveals that yes there is a special tool but that it is not available for purchase.
Anyone experienced with this problem ?

[winfred]

plastic spin off cover about the diameter of a beer can and half the height? i use a nylon strap wrench that can be used with a 1/2" drive ratchet and extension, got it for a few bucks at a parts store

[Zeuk in Oz]

Thanks for that - that sounds about right given his description. I haven't looked at it myself.