Changing Oil in 03: First Time

[ADKExplorer]

Guys...
Can you lend a hand to a newbie. I am thinking about changing my own oil for the first time. I have been reading past posts and it seems to be real easy. Can you give me a step by step process so that I do not mess anything up? I was thinking of switching to Syn. as it only has 23,000 miles and I thought that it would be a good idea to do it now. What else should I be checking on regular intervals or greasing that would have been done if I took it into Ford? Thanks for your help!!

 

[aldive]

Glad to see a new DIYer.

Its really very simple. First you want to get the truck on jack stands so you have room underneath. Next loosen the drail plug located on the oil pan and let the oil drain into a suitable container. While it is draining, loosen the oil filter, then put a 1 gal size ziplock bag over it and unscrew ( the baf prevents any mess.

Replace the oil drain plug. Next take a new oil filter, lube the o oring with new motor oil and screw it back on ( hand tight ).

Fill the crankcase with new oil.

The idea of using synthetic is a great one.

Good luck.

 

[spindlecone]

And fill the new filter about 3/4 full with the oil your using, that way you will get instant oil pressor

 

[ADKExplorer]

Thanks for the fast reply. Do you think that I really need the jack stands or is there going to be enough room for me without them to get under the X? Is it worth getting a oil pan drain plug that can be hooked up to a hose for easier draining or are they unreliable?? Alo ...should I warm up the engine before draining? I think that would make sense but agian I do not want to make a mistake! Thanks Again!

 

[aldive]

One more idea.....

I recommend that you replace the oil drain plug with a Fumoto Engine Oil Drain Valve. It will prevent any mess the next time you drain.

http://www.fumotovalve.com/

You can attach a hose to the valve and direct the oil into a container.

 

[DeRocha]

Aldive is on the money... I have the Fumoto valve in all my vehicles. This is a top of the line product and worth every penny... Don't get a cheap valve at discount stores (We've all heard bad things about them).

 

[sonik]

Alo ...should I warm up the engine before draining? I think that would make sense but agian I do not want to make a mistake! Thanks Again!

Go ahead and warm it up. Just don't burn yourself on hot engine/exhaust components or the oil itself.

I liked the plastic bag idea aldive.

 

[lonestar]

Changing Oil in 03: First Time; 23,000 miles

it's about time!

 

[EBInterceptor]

I wouldn't even waste my time with warming it up, or using a jack and stands. I can slide in and out of mine easily (well easier with a creeper). You don't really need to fill up the filter when putting it back on, but putting some oil on seal. I've never thought of using a plastic bag for the oil filter, that would have been nice to know. Last time I changed mine the filter slipped out of my hand and made a mess.

I don't see any real need for the fumato drain plug. I've done mine many times without one. If you're concerned about getting oil on your hands, some latex gloves work nice, and an oil container is great to have. Just slides right underneath fills up, and then has a spout to pour into other jugs if needed.

 

[aldive]

it's about time!

He is talking about the first time HE has changed it.

 

[ADKExplorer]

Thanks for all of the replies. I must ask jus tone more question...for now! Is there any other regular lubrication that I should be doing every 3-5,000 miles? My wifes Jimmy needs to have some components in here wheel assebmly lubbed regularly. Anything like that on the X. Thanks again for all of your thought!!

 

[aldive]

No, none needed.

 

[MONMIX]

You may want to consider a new air filter with every oil change.
OR get a K&N fliter. They last forever.