Do I need a ramp?

[Generalisimo]

Getting ready for first self done oil change. Got a metal replacement oil filter housing, Motive filter wrench & drain tool, drain plug washers and filters. Haven’t been under the beast yet, but wondering if you use ramps or can access everything without or on a creeper (my preference)?
I’ve had the dealer experience with previous vehicles & don’t need to the lesson again.

 

[flyrv9]

You can probably get by without ramps or jack stands; but I wouldn't. I've done an oil change and was glad I had the extra room. For one thing you'll have a time getting the skid plate all the way off without raising the vehicle up some.

 

[mrblah]

If u r lifted on 33s, you can probably get away with just driving on some scrap 2x4. That’s what I do.

 

[97BlackAckCL]

I will be attempting my first change on my 17 soon. I changed my oil on my 4th gens (03 and 08) and never used a ramp, just a floorjack but I'm sure ramps would be nice peace of mind. Like flyrv9 said, the issue is the skid that has to pivot down

 

[patkelly4370]

I got spoiled with my last daily driver (still have it). I can change the oil from up top without crawling underneath.
1968 F100 with 240 cu/in straight six.
Yes, after 30 years with this truck I still have to fish the drain plug out of the drain pan 50% of the time.

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[Space King]

I got spoiled with my last daily driver (still have it). I can change the oil from up top without crawling underneath.
1968 F100 with 240 cu/in straight six.
Yes, after 30 years with this truck I still have to fish the drain plug out of the drain pan 50% of the time.

I know exactly what you mean. I have a 1971 Datsun 510 that I can change the oil from the top. The only difference is that I drop the plug into the drain pan some number approaching 100%.

Anyway to the OP, I'd recommend safely lifting the vehicle in some fashion. Even if you don't absolutely need to. The reason is that oil changes are an excellent opportunity to do a visual inspection of the underbits. The kind of inspection that dealerships claim to perform, but typically don't.
Though ramps are easier (and usually safer) to use, I prefer putting my rides on jack stands. That way I can check out the ball joints and front bearings while it's up.

Be safe.

 

[Arnezie]

I have an aftermarket skid and I pull up on 2 2x10s that I put together to make a ramp and I’ve got plenty of room. You can do it without a lift or ramps on the ground with the factory skid but it’s tight. When I did I used a piece of cardboard instead of my creeper to get under it but it’s tight !!


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[Generalisimo]

Thanks guys. The consensus is get it up off the ground; guess I’ll check out ramps as that seems quick and easy compared to jacking up and stands. I’m a little leery about raised up on 2x10’s but will check that out too.
As for dropping the drain plug into the pan and fishing for it later, isn’t that s.o.p.?

 

[Iffykid]

Thanks guys. The consensus is get it up off the ground; guess I’ll check out ramps as that seems quick and easy compared to jacking up and stands. I’m a little leery about raised up on 2x10’s but will check that out too.
As for dropping the drain plug into the pan and fishing for it later, isn’t that s.o.p.?

I think the intent is to stack the 2X10s flat on the ground and perhaps nailing them together making a set of homemade ramps, I could be wrong and it wouldn't be the first time.

Post count building at the same time.:blah:

 

[pDubs]

We've had 3 4runners and I've never lifted any of them to change the oil.

1 was completely stock, 1 was 2.5/1.5, my newest one is just 1" front level and I've never had a problem just laying underneath to change.

On my new one I have the full RCI skid package, I just remove the front one. Even though there's a hole cut out for the oil drain bolt, the oil always seems to eventually start dripping all over the topside of the skid, and I have to remove to clean anyways.

 

[ScottR]

No ramp is necessary and removing a stock skid is not a big deal. I briefly wedge a knee under it to hold in place for removing or installing bolts. Go get dirty!

 

[Whippersnapper02]

No need but it makes things easier.

 

[Generalisimo]

What the heck, I’ll give it a go without. Certainly don’t need more stuff laying around taking up space in the garage.

 

[85GT-79FJ40]

I can't imagine "needing" a set of ramps to do an oil change on a 4Runner. I've done mine numerous times without. And I'm not exactly the thinnest most spry guy either. I will admit it's way nicer to do it at work on the lift though. But that's often tied up hence the creeper use.

 

[nb rob]

I've never used ramps for an oilchange before or after lifting it

 

[_#1_]

Been doing my own oil change before and after a lift and 33s. All without a ramp.

A question thought. Is this ramp thing for just the front, or front and rear? I've seen people do only front. Won't the angle tilt in a way that a certain amount of old oil will still be in the oil pan?

I thought car supposed to be as level as possible.

 

[daytonaviolet]

Before my lift I changed the oil without any ramp. with stock height the skid plate won’t angle all the way to clear the filter. that’s fine, just take two more nuts off and just take the skid plate off. Just watch your head as it’s kinda heavy and may but your head.

 

[kenwilliams0803]

Been doing my own oil change before and after a lift and 33s. All without a ramp.

A question thought. Is this ramp thing for just the front, or front and rear? I've seen people do only front. Won't the angle tilt in a way that a certain amount of old oil will still be in the oil pan?

I thought car supposed to be as level as possible.

Just the front. And it drains fine due to the location of the drain on the pan. However, it should come off the ramps after the initial fill to check the final level and add as needed.

 

[flyrv9]

Ramps or no ramps - here is a drain pan with a big lid and built in screen to prevent having to fish for the drain bolt. I've had one of these for years and it works well. Just don't over tighten the small emptying cap.

https://www.amazon.com/Lumax-LX-163...=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B0059HJSA2

 

[Levant0s]

I’ve done a bunch of oil changes and inspections without ramps, but having them does make it way easier, especially if you’re on a flat driveway. I found some good options over at astrolift.co.nz that could work depending on your setup. A small ramp makes sliding under without jacking way more comfortable and quicker, especially if you've added any lift or skid plates.