Not sure what an engine filter is. I replaced the driver's side front LCA on my step-kids 97 a week or two back. The transmission was in the way of the pivot bolt. I released the lower engine mount from the K-frame, then I loosened up the entire K-frame (didn't actually take the bolts out, just loosened them). Then I (very gently) jacked up the tranny about an inch, then I had enough clearance to get the pivot bolt out. Good luck, hope that helps.
