"Must-have" Oil Change items.

[pinoyplaya]

Is it me or is the oil filter located on the top slightly above the engine (level wise)?

I can sense a huge mess

[NRGBalanced]

Did my first oil change last weekend. My ramps just cleared the front air dam with no scraping. I took the time to install a Fumoto valve as well. Could be just my car, but I wasn't particularly pleased with where the lever ended up. The valve is almost upside down, to the point where the oil coming out will just clear the release lever mechanism. I tried rethreading it a couple times, and decided it was good enough. Just wish it was right side up

Anyway, thanks to Draco for the tips. The drip pan suggestion in particular was a big help. I've changed my oil before in other cars, but this went even smoother!

[Jayde]

Originally Posted by pinoyplaya

Is it me or is the oil filter located on the top slightly above the engine (level wise)?

I can sense a huge mess

There's a cup/lip around the oil filter that helps prevent messes. Just make sure you drain the oil first.

[Hawaiian]

Originally Posted by NRGBalanced

Did my first oil change last weekend. My ramps just cleared the front air dam with no scraping. I took the time to install a Fumoto valve as well. Could be just my car, but I wasn't particularly pleased with where the lever ended up. The valve is almost upside down, to the point where the oil coming out will just clear the release lever mechanism. I tried rethreading it a couple times, and decided it was good enough. Just wish it was right side up

Anyway, thanks to Draco for the tips. The drip pan suggestion in particular was a big help. I've changed my oil before in other cars, but this went even smoother!

Use a washer to space it on your next oil change.

[F1point4]

Thanks Draco for the advice. I did my first oil change today. Thoughts and observations here
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showp...6&postcount=38

Here are some pictures of the drain valve installed since it was discussed previously in this thread


20120815-FirstOilChange-3 by VictorN07, on Flickr


20120815-FirstOilChange-1 by VictorN07, on Flickr

Tip of the spring clip barely sticks out. I could probably rotate it so it doesn't do that.

20120815-FirstOilChange-6 by VictorN07, on Flickr

[zoomzoomers]

Awesome thread!

[zoomzoomers]

Just ordered the Fumoto valve (F-108S) and 12 qts of Royal Purple 0w20 motor oil. I'm probably going to just take her into the dealership and have the oil & filter changed, but ask them to use my oil and install the Fumoto valve. I just hope it will all go as planned. From what I've read on Subaru dealerships I don't have much confidence in their work or character, but will give it a try. Wish me luck!

[civicdrivr]

For those ordering the Fumoto valve, you can get 10% off using coupon code YM4. Its only ~$2 off, but every little bit helps

[zoomzoomers]

Already ordered mine, but good to know for those who haven't yet.

Originally Posted by civicdrivr

For those ordering the Fumoto valve, you can get 10% off using coupon code YM4. Its only ~$2 off, but every little bit helps

[Bristecom]

Originally Posted by Draco-REX

Advance Autoparts (.com) should have everything you need. I know the stores out here stock everything. 0W-20 is harder to get. Mobil1 (not recommended for Subaru engines) and Castrol Edge Titanium. You can also use 5w-20, especially in the summer, the operating weight will be the same. I put 5w-20 Pennzoil Platinum in mine at my last oil change.

Why is Mobil 1 not recommended for Subaru engines?

[zoomzoomers]

Originally Posted by Bristecom

Why is Mobil 1 not recommended for Subaru engines?

Do a search on this. There is some detailed info on the reason. From what I've read, previous Subaru owners have had issues with other Subaru boxer 4's eating Mobil 1 at excessive levels. Then again, there are others who have said that they've never had an issue with Mobil 1 too.

[Bristecom]

Originally Posted by zoomzoomers

Do a search on this. There is some detailed info on the reason. From what I've read, previous Subaru owners have had issues with other Subaru boxer 4's eating Mobil 1 at excessive levels. Then again, there are others who have said that they've never had an issue with Mobil 1 too.

That may have been a problem for some in the past but I mean, this is a pretty different engine that is naturally aspirated and is designed for 0w-20 oil. I have a hard time believing it's as simple as Mobil 1 isn't good with Subaru engines regardless of the variables. But if a bunch of people start posting on here that they're losing their Mobil 1 oil at alarming rates and don't have that problem with any other brand of 0w-20, then I'll believe it.

[zoomzoomers]

Originally Posted by Bristecom

That may have been a problem for some in the past but I mean, this is a pretty different engine that is naturally aspirated and is designed for 0w-20 oil. I have a hard time believing it's as simple as Mobil 1 isn't good with Subaru engines regardless of the variables. But if a bunch of people start posting on here that they're losing their Mobil 1 oil at alarming rates and don't have that problem with any other brand of 0w-20, then I'll believe it.

I'm actually with you on this. That's why I'm planning to try Mobil 1 when it's time to replace the RP I'm going with for my 1st change. I'll have to see for myself if it holds water. I've never had a single issue with Mobil 1 and don't see why I would with this car.

[Phaedrus29]

Originally Posted by Bristecom

That may have been a problem for some in the past but I mean, this is a pretty different engine that is naturally aspirated and is designed for 0w-20 oil. I have a hard time believing it's as simple as Mobil 1 isn't good with Subaru engines regardless of the variables. But if a bunch of people start posting on here that they're losing their Mobil 1 oil at alarming rates and don't have that problem with any other brand of 0w-20, then I'll believe it.

You mean you want evidence before you start forming beliefs?!? That's crazy talk.