Oil Change Tech Tips

• Drain the oil while it is hot. Contaminants will be in suspension and drain more easily from the engine.

• Always replace the filter when changing the oil

• Wipe some oil on the filter gasket so the seal won't stick or tear.

• Hand tighten the filter about 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn after the gasket makes contact. Over-tightening may damage the threads or gasket, and make the filter difficult to remove the next time the oil is changed. Under-tightening may allow the filter to work loose and leak.

• If the oil is badly contaminated or sludged, the crankcase should be cleaned and flushed before the engine is refilled with oil.

• Always check the oil level after refilling the crankcase. Start the engine, then shut it off and check the oil level after several minutes. It should be at the full mark on the dipstick. Most engine hold about four quarts of oil, plus half a pint to almost a quart for the filter (depending on the size of the filter). Overfilling can cause oil foaming and leaks. Under-filling may cause a loss of oil pressure and engine damage!

• Dispose of your old used oil properly. Save it in a container and take it to an auto parts store or other facility that recycles oil. Do NOT dump it on the ground, down a storm sewer or anyplace else where it can contaminate ground water.