I have read on the forum not to let the oil get too low, on the dip stick how far above the L should it be? Having an oil change soon plus new filters as the oil is a bit dark, can any garage do this or should i get an experienced RX garage to do this.
Well in theory anything above L is ok, but if I check it and its not on maximum then I would just top it up :)
Any garage could dp an oil change, but id want to know what oil was going in. Its easy to do yourself, even I managed it.
Lee
Please dont laugh but what are the steps to change the oil (i know drain it and fill it up) but what is the best way to do it?
I was going to write this at the weekend with photos from doing mine, but here goes quickly...
Tools needed:
Jack - in boot toolkit
19m (I think) spanner - in boot toolkit
Container for drained oil
New filter (Halfords will have some)
New oil
Rubber gloves (optional, but they help lots!)
Step 1.
Go and get the bits you need, when you get home the oil will be warm which is what you want it to be when you change the oil.
Step 2.
Jack the car up. Passenger side front is probably easiest as that will direct the sump plug towards the floor so the oil will come out better. It will need to be jacked up pretty high.
Step 3.
Put your oil catch can under the sump plug. Get the spanner, and undo the sump plug. It will be tight, gloves give better leverage here ;) . Once its loosened the oil wont come out right away, you need to actually start taking it out before the oil will go everywhere. Remove the plug completly, dont lose the washer unless you have another! Oh yes, the oil might be hot so dont burn yourself.
Step 4.
Remove the old oil filter. Try to avoid cutting hands whilst doing this. It shouldnt be too tight, and with some pressure I find I can unscrew mine with the rubber glove. Its located on the passenger side towards the bulkhead for those not sure. Unforuntatly as it faces down, once its loosened oil will pour everywhere so do it quickly to make less mess.
Step 5.
Put on new filter. Before you screw it into place, get some of the new oil and wipe it around the seal of the new filter. Doing it up hand tight should be ok
Step 6.
Wait for the rest of the oil to come out the sump, though by now I recon you will have most of it.
Step 7.
Once the oil is drained, put the sump plug back into place. Remove you catching thing.
Step 8.
Lower car and remove the jack. Put the new oil into the engine now (carefully, dont spill it all like I do). Keep checking the level untill you have it full. Remember to screw the cap back on.
Thats it - oil change done. I have heard though thats its a good idea to warm the new oil at this stage and check the level again, making sure you have no leaks.
I now hope someone doesnt tell me I have been doing it wrong for months :rollin
Cheers
Lee
Always keep your oil above half! above 3/4\'s is even better.
Lee - you going to add this into the FAQ section "How to do an oil change" ta mate - nice one.
Yes Glenn Im going to put it in FAQ section, but as im doign mine next weekend ill wait till then and put a few photos up with it. Will be able to show where the sump plug is, jacking point and oil filter etc. Sounds silly, but if youve never done it before your never really sure.
Cheers
Lee
Good man Lee - I suppose it will be specific to the FD, but all rotaries are very similar with oil changes.
The haynes manual recommends punching a hole in the top of the old filter whilke the oil is draining, and before removing it. Good idea so long as you know that it will come off.
one more point learnt the hard way.
Its usually best to take out the plugs and crank the engine over on the starter motor until you start to see some oil pressure showing on the guage. Probably more true when using a filter thats upside down so you cant fill it with oil before you attach it.
QuoteOriginally posted by Cycaduk
Probably more true when using a filter thats upside down so you cant fill it with oil before you attach it.
I filled the filter about 3/4 full of oil, before quickly putting it back on.
I would add to the above steps:
2a: Remove oil filler cap. Oil comes out easier if air can get in the top easier.
Andrew