Oil pan plugs and changing oil

[major]

Whats the consensus on the special oil pan plugs that make oil changes easier? I saw one that you basically screwed a hose to and that pushed on a valve that drained the oil. It came with a protective cap for the times you dont want to drain the oil as well. Are there any that are good to use or is dealing with the plain plug with oil going all over it those last couple threads just a fact of life? I would like to start changing my oil but really cant have the mess as i live in a apartment and dont want to ruin someone elses property.

Lets say i do get the plug out without spilling any oil.... what are some good methods to get the filter off cleanly?

I also need to add i am going to get some ramps (looking into Blitz Rhino Ramps) to help with changing my starter so that shlould help out this process i hope.

If you have any tips please feel free to let me know as im definatly looking for help.

Thanks,
Major

 

[IZwack]

To get the filter off cleanly, punch it at the very bottom to create a drain hole (a phillips screwdriver and a hammer works). When the oil stops flowing out of the hole, spin the filter off. This method is very helpful for engines with large filters (example: the 7.3L diesel) as such filters can hold up to almost a gallon in oil and are very difficult to handle when they are full of oil.

As for the drain plug, if its pointing sideways, then I would definitely get one of those special oil drain plugs. If its at the bottom of the pan, then I would leave it. The problem with the ones pointing sideways (like on the 4.0 SOHC) is that it shoots oil sideways in the beginning which could miss the pan. Its been a while since I changed the oil on my SOHC engine, but I believe the oil also splashes all over the lower A-arm -- very messy.

 

[Cobraguy]

To get the filter off cleanly, punch it at the very bottom to create a drain hole (a phillips screwdriver and a hammer works). When the oil stops flowing out of the hole, spin the filter off.

IZ, that is a fantastic idea! Another one I use is I take tin foil and shape it in a way that I can use it to guide the oil that comes off the filter into the drain pan without running anywhere else. When done, crumple up the foil and toss away. Works good too.

 

[zonianbrat]

I sometimes use the "punch a hole in the filter method" or I just lay down cardboard. I also have one of those big square oil drain bucket thingies. You unscrew a plastic plug on the side and in the pan itse lf. It holds 9 quarts and it is big enough that if you place it right you will not drip anywhere. I also always have a pack of shop towels so that once I drain everything I wipe down all around the area so you dont get any drips later on. I have not done any research but some companies make oil filter relocation kits that way you can relocate it somewhere easy to access. Just a thought.

 

[aldive]

Whats the consensus on the special oil pan plugs that make oil changes easier?

In my opinion the Fumoto Oil Drain Valve is the greatest thing ever for oilo changing.

I saw one that you basically screwed a hose to and that pushed on a valve that drained the oil. It came with a protective cap for the times you dont want to drain the oil as well.

That one is made by Fram, enough said.

Are there any that are good to use or is dealing with the plain plug with oil going all over it those last couple threads just a fact of life? I would like to start changing my oil but really cant have the mess as i live in a apartment and dont want to ruin someone elses property.

The Fumato Oil Drain Valve ( http://www.qwikvalve.com/ ) is what you want. Its simple to use and never makes a mess. I have had mine for years with no problems whatsoever.

what are some good methods to get the filter off cleanly?

I have been using the following technique for over 20 years with great results.

First loosen the oil filter with a filter wrench then slip a gallon size zip lock bag over the filter and unscrew by hand. No leaks, no mess.

 

[Willard]

One thing that helps of course is getting the largest diameter drain pan you can find. The one I use is about 24" across and when placed strategically works very well.

The hole in the filter idea is good too, just be careful so you don't hit the threaded part the filter screw on to and mess it up.

However, if it's a 4.0 OHV, the drain plugs aren't too hard since they point down and the filter does too, if you're careful you can get the filter off and keep it upright to avoid spilling oil. I'm not sure how they are oriented on the SOHC though.

Edit: Aldive's idea about the ziplock bag seems the best for the filter, very good idea.