Never had a problem with it with the stock skid plate since the hole is huge. It takes more finesse with my BudBuilt. The hole is only slightly larger than 2" in diameter and is much farther away from the oil pan than the stocker. Basically I try to get the bolt to the point where it is as loose as it will go without coming out. Then with just the socket and extension (no ratchet) I try to spin it and drop it as fast as I can. Not foolproof, but it works pretty good so far.

 

Easier solution:
http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/a...bypass_filter/

 

I have an even easier solution that doesn't require as much work or stacking newspaper. I'll take pictures for my method the next time I change my oil (which will be as soon as the parts for the clutch come in).

 

Ok, don't laugh too hard. Had to do an oil change this morning so I dug around in the recycleables and picked out a cooking oil bottle, cut the bottom off and stuffed it in from underneath, under the lip just below the oil filter. It was aimed just past the skid plate and voila! no mess when I unscrewed the oil filter. Hooray!! (96 manual 3.4) No wrestling with skid plate. Hooray!!

 

My idea for a no-mess oil change is to get a filter relocator and relocate the filter to the front of the wheel well by the vacuum canister.

 

I just stick to putting paper towels or shop rags under the filter while loosening. Then once it's off, flip it upward so no oil pours out.

I also remove the skid plate that's directly underneath the engine--not the one under the bumper.

Last time I changed the oil, I didn't even turn the tire, just reached in and grabbed the filter. This wouldn't work for some people with larger tires, but worked fine for me.

 

I basically use Hab's approach, only I just leave the cap on and let it fill up the container and remove it. No more fuss.

 

I did mine yesterday, and didn't remove the skid plate. No big mess--just a few little drips. I just made sure to drain out the oil from the pan first, then scooched the drain pan under the filter while loosening it. Pretty simple process. Took less time than my previous cars, except the S2000.

Also just a thought. This thought does not apply to those using synthetic oils. Anyway, I bought Valvoline 10W-30 (6 bottles) and it came out to $19. Then I bought a Toyota Oil Filter, which came out to ~$10 or so (can't remember). The total was $29. I just went by the Toyota dealership, and they charge $28.99 for an oil change. Now, I enjoy working on my cars, but not the regular maintenance stuff--especially if someone else can do it for the same cost as doing it myself. Next time, I'm going to the dealership. Now, THAT'S a real "no mess oil change."