Just changed the oil with 2241 miles on the odometer. I couldn't wait for the 3000mile marker. Anyway, I wanted to thank everyone here for all the ideas on changing the oil in this beast. Actually, this was the cleanest oil change I've ever done. Didn't spill one drop at all. Piece of cake really. The drain plug was kinda loose when I first wrenched it off.... kinda scary loose. And for all who care, written in very small print on the stock drain plug, it says to torque to 35lbs/ft of torque. I've read 40lbs was correct, the manual says 37lbs. I torqued to 35. No runs, no drips, no errors. Thanks again.

Tony

 

How hard was it to get the oil filter off? I've heard they're on there pretty good from the factory.

 

The factory filter wasn't on any more or less tight than any other filter I've removed. I used the 15flute/93mm steel endcap filter tool w/several extensions on my ratchet. Once loose, I was able to reach up from below with my hand and unscrew the filter and lower it, no problem.

 

Where would one get the above steel filter cap?
Thanks

 

Here is one place:

http://198.104.149.53/CoastalData/sh...D=1545&CATID=1

It is stamped from fairly thin sheet steel and seems to work well.

You might also find one locally once you know what size to look for.

 

I stick to my screwdriver-through-the-filter-and-turn

 

Yikes! Why are they so tight that you need to do that? I can turn mine off by hand each time and I've never had a leak. I put a plastic bag under the filter and drop it in.

 

I bought mine at AutoZone for about 5bucks. I know Geno's sells a couple of them. I'd stay away from the plastic ones though..... my guess is they could fracture.

 

I've got the Lisle tools metal one too. I've heard the plastic ones slip somehow, I don't really know about that. I got mine at a local auto parts store that also does machine work and hydraulic hoses, they've got just about everything there. Cost 4.95 I think. Just make sure you get the right one.

 

I bought the plastic one first but, didnt seem to grip quite right so I bought the metal one, it works great!! The plastic one just collects dust in my shed now

 

I have a plastic "5-in-1" orange one that I bought from Geno's. I believe Walmart has the same one. I've been using it for 45,000 miles....so 6 oil changes....and it works just fine. No slipping, no breaking, no problems. You just stick your 3/8" drive into it with a few extensions and it slides right on. Give it a few turns and then it slides right off. Simple really.

 

I use a KD band type filter wrench. I do that because I'm kinda cheap and buy the non-fluted Fleetguard Stratopore filters. They are a buck cheaper. Hey, better I have the buck than the parts dealer!