Hi all,

I just bought my 00' SR5, 5spd and am preparing on changing the oil and oil filter for the first time.
I've heard horror stories about changing the oil filter, that is hard to reach or something to that effect.

Please provide me with any pointers if any to make my first oil change a breeze.

TIA,

maguirre
00' SR5, 5spd

 

Here is the info you need.http://www.4runners.org/articles/oil/

 

try a search next time. The writeup Paul linked for you can be found in our tech section.

 

I've found it easier to remove the 2 skid plates in one piece. Removing 7 bolts, starting @ the 2 in the rear then the 2 in the middle (recessed a bit) then the 3 up front while holding up the mid-section.
Remove the left front tire for easy access to the oil filter (the only messy part), then use a zip lock bag to cover the filter. Press the bag tightly against the engine around the bottom while you turn the filter off with the other hand. This will catch most of the oil that would normally spill out of the filter.
Clean up is easy with a little aerosol carb or brake cleaner that can be found @ the many 99 cent stores across the country.

 

to make the oil change super easy i use an oil filter wrench cap that goes on top of the filter. It accepts a 1/2 socket connection so i put in a socket elbow follow by 2 6inch extensions and 1 3 inch extension which connects up to the socket wrench..I can now work from out of my wheel well. once its really loose i take everything off and do the last bit by hand and then quickly turn it upside down to avoid spills. To put the new one on get it started by hand and once the filter gasket touches the block, turn it another 3/4 turn. This can be done by hand but i use my extension contraption that has an arrow on the filter wrench so i can see 3/4 of a turn easy...also once you have the old filter removed move your oil pan to the rear of the second skidplate as oil will come out there. Its a real easy oil change that can be done in 30min tops.

 

OK, I probably shouldn't respond since someone above didn't use the Blinking "Search" button...But

Let's not forget about the Fiber Gasket on the drain plug bolt. You will probably need a new one. If not you will the next change or shortly after.

Lesson learned from my first

 

its a real mess if you dont place a bunch of rags under neath the filter

 

i always spill oil from the oil filter. i've accepted it. it happens.


it's easier to get to the oil filter by removing the skid plates and driver front tire but it's possible to get the job done without doing all that.

after your first oil change you'll realize it's not that hard to do.