So I haven't done an oil change in years, but I want to continue to use Mopile One and I'd like to keep it clean. Maybe you guys can walk me through it. What tools do I need to remove the Skid plate? What size are those bolts? Are there only 4? Also what kind of tool should I use to get the filter off safely? And then what kind of pan do you guys use to collect the oil and then finally how do you discard the oil?

Walk me through it.
Thanks,
George

On my v6, the oil filter is located in the front of the engine on top. I tighten mine by hand, but the stealer who did my last change tightened it down so I had to "stab" it with a screwdriver to break it loose, using a pop can to collect the oil that runs down through the drain hole. I didn't remove the skid plate, there is a hole to expose the oil pan bolt. I drained it into a collection pan (found near oil at stores that sell oil) and took it to a quick lube place, they took the oil and then I think they send it to a recycling place. I don't remember the size of the oil pan bolt, but if you wish to remove the skid plate use a 12mm socket. You will need a deep socket or an extension to get at the front skid plate bolts. Its really light (stock one) and easy to remove.

Not sure about the filter location if you have a v8.

Place a drop of oil on the four 12mm skid plate bolts when reinstalling. I dip the bolts in my used motor. This will help keep them from rusting up, since these need to be removed many many times.

I cannot fit my hand around the oil filter, so I bought an oil filter adaptor that fits on the end of a ratchet extension. Buy a Toyota filter. I really like them.

The back skid does not have to be dropped but an oval access panel in the skid plate can be removed to get to the oil drain plug. The oil drain plug uses a 14mm socket. Pick up a pack of drain plug crush washers. I use fiber ones but the aluminum ones are fine.

My township recycle center accepts used motor oil.

Do your self a favor and get a can of never-seize and never-seize all the bolts throughout the vehicle, as you remove them for maintenance. (brake caliper bolts, lug nuts, back of the wheels where they meet the axles, exhaust, etc.)

Koz

On the V8, the filter is on the bottom of the engine. It's easy to get at after you remove the skid plate. Removing the skid plate is definitely the right way to change the filter.

BlueWave:

The perfect filter wrench for the V-6 is available at Walmart for only several bucks. It's the metal one with the pivoting handle that self-tightens as you apply torque. It fits into the available space perfectly. Use it to snug down a new filter and it will break it loose later with no effort. No need to overtighten - just a bit firmer than you can with your bare hand.

PS - Toyota OEM filters have a pre-lubricated seal.

6 quarts of Mobile One goes for 29.74 at Sams Club. That seems good. I just need a source for filters and then run to Walmart get supplies and a metric ratchet set. I want to take that skid plate off this week and clean it better.

Never seize
Drain plug crush washers
Oil collection pan
Metric Socket set
Walmart Metal Filter wrench

I appreciate the info and I will use it, so if there is more keep it coming.

And it does strike me that I've absolutely turned the corner on fanaticism regarding this vehicle as I really don't have to do this, nor do I really have the time. But I want to.

I installed a remote bypass oil filtration system at 3K miles just behind the front bumper. One of the benefits is I only have to reach behind the bumper to change the filter. No more removing the skid plate. I am approaching (25K miles) the second UOA on the same oil next month. I will post the results. If anyone is interested, this thread has all the details.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showth...s&pagenumber=1

Koz

True only for those made outside the United States.
The biggest "bang for the buck" when going OEM filters are those made in Thailand. 90915-YZZD1 for V6 size, or 90915-YZZD3 for V8. The V8 filter fits on the V6 if you'd like a slightly bigger filter. The wrench is also the same for both.

Well I didn't realize this but apparently Autozone accepts the motor oil for recycling. But also the Local recycling center also accepts the oil 24/7. The Oil recylcing was the biggest deal for me in terms of DIY, but that's not turning out to be a big deal.
So far the best price has been Walmart for the Mobile One in the 5 quart jug at about $4.80 a quart.

This is a great idea which I have been doing at every oil change. Especially on my '93. One of the bolts on the front of the skid plate on the 93 is sheared off (happened at the dealer and they never drilled it out).

Yea I don

Koz,
I think I remember you reporting that you didn't get good reading on the Mobile One at 7500miles with a filter change at 3750. When did you put the Mobile One in?

After the break-in, I've only used 0w-30 Amsoil in the 4Runner. If the 0w-20 was available at the time I would have used that. Amsoil now makes a 0w-20. I will be using it in my IS, but no bypass. There is really no place to install it.

Koz