Oil change procedure / tools needed

[pbyrne]

I'm setting up to change the oil this year.  Previous years I simply ran out of time and had the local mechanic do it.

I'm picking up a Pela vacuum pump, I have filters, but need to get oil, and I would like to know if a tool is needed to remove or secure the filter.  I used to have a kind of massive socket that would fit over the filter on my motorcycle, but not sure that is the correct tool for the Universal.

Also, I believe it's 4 quarts of oil that is required.

So is the below correct:

Use oil removal pump on oil hose
Use oil dipstick hole to remove any remaining oil
Leave hose in small pan to get final oil out over time
Total should be 4 qts
Is a tool needed to remove filter (or just a strap?)
Should you fill the oil filter prior to installation (I think so)
What is the correct oil, and amount needed

[Noah]

I use Rottella T1 30W.
I suck oil out through the dipstick
Filter should only be hand tight
Coat new filter gasket with a bit oil before screwing it in.
Read manual on your engine for amount of oil. Generally it takes just over four quarts. Check dipstick while changing to make sure you don't overfill. "Been there done that" and had to suck a bit back out. A PIA if discovered after you have cleaned up and put away your pump.;-)

[pbyrne]

I use Rottella T1 30W.
I suck oil out through the dipstick
Filter should only be hand tight
Coat new filter gasket with a bit oil before screwing it in.
Read manual on your engine for amount of oil. Generally it takes just over four quarts. Check dipstick while changing to make sure you don't overfill. "Been there done that" and had to suck a bit back out. A PIA if discovered after you have cleaned up and put away your pump.;-)

Dipstick it is! Noted on level. LOL  I know this isn't T1, but the local chandlery carries this.  What do you think?  https://www.marineoutfitters.ca/index.cfm?category=10025|10788&product=81159275&code=021400058750

[Stu Jackson]

The hose from the bottom of my drain pan is threaded because it is connected to a hook that holds it up on the side of the engine compartment.  I figured out the threads and attached a matched threaded fitting to the end of the hose on a Par hand pump, so I can easily attach the two hoses without spillage.  I no longer have to use the dipstick.  (I did this in 1999.)  Why use the dipstick when you have that comparatively huge hose right there to put to good effect.

[Noah]

Thx Stu- I will give your method a try next time!

[Ron Hill]

I use 15W40 Mobile One synthetic.  4 qt. is correct. 

I also unscrew the filter until the next half turn will start to drip (at the gasket)  Then I drill a hole in the top of the filter. Place a plastic cup over the engine mount to protect it from any oil. Have a number of paper towels under the filter. Place a cutoff coffee can under the filter and unscrew the filter a half of turn (so the drilled hole in now down). Then I drill another hole in the top so all of the oil drains. Then I unscrew the filter so it falls into the coffee can.

I also let the oil drain hose in a low dish after sucking pout all of the oil so it drains ALL of the old oil out (takes about an extra 1/2 hr to slowly drip/drain)

Protect that engine mount because oil will KILL it!!   

A few thoughts

[KWKloeber]

@pbyrne


I thought we went thru this last Septemeber!
https://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,11811.msg95917.html#msg95917


Besides that thread, you might read this message/thread, which pertains to both oil and tranny fluid.
https://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,9554.msg72039.html#msg72039


I do not like single-purpose pumps (or single-purpose anything taking up boat space) and have not had the best of luck with the longevity of marine "oil pumps".  Plus cleaning up a mess.

My pump system clean-up is two short 1/4" vinyl hoses and a stiff "wand" of 1/8" poly tubing *to reach down the dipstick tube and tranny.)  I can suck out every drop in the corner of the pan.

Once I am done, they get tossed  - no muss no fuss.
The pump, spare hoses, filter, etc., fit nicely in a hinged plastic shoebox snap-close box.

In the past, I have used ONLY dino oil, not synthetic, and ONLY T1.  As this becomes harder to find I might have to change my mind on that.

I find that a motorcycle filter wrench (metal band type) is the easiest to use, but others' mileage may vary.  I used one from K Mart since 1994 and I wouldn't change that on a bet.

Some drive a screwdriver hole in the filter to drain oil before removing it.  Makes a lot of sense but I have not tried it.
 
As Noah said, lightly oil the gasket.  I do not fill it beforehand (messy.)   Just contact it plus 1/4 turn (= hand tight.)

Here also is some tips for filling the tranny -- ""Full" but not "Overfull"".)
https://groups.io/g/Catalina30/wiki/11617

Ken

   

[scgunner]

pbyrne,

This oil change is basically the same as your car. Unlike the fuel filters you don't need to fill the oil filter before install it'll just create an unnecessary mess. I don't use a pump to drain the oil I just unscrew the drain plug in the oil pan with a container below.

[scgunner]

Oops! I forgot to remove the filter I use an automotive metal oil strap it has no handle but instead a square hole so you can use a ratchet once the tool is in place it's much easier to use in tight places. Like anything else after a couple of times you'll probably find a method that works best for you.