Help with First Oil Change

[ruthdog23]

I am about 2k miles away from my first oil change in my new 2007 V6 4x4 Sport Edition. I want to do the change myself, but need to make sure I have everything I need first.

So my questions are:

1. Should I use a jack or ramps to lift the Runner?
2. If a jack, what sort of jack do you recommend and where are the jack points located?
3. If a jack, do you lower it off the jack while it is draining or not?
4. How easy is it to get to the oil filter?

Thanks for any help you can provide!!

 

[TheBlueWave]

This particular topic has been discussed in thousands of posts, so try a search if my answers don't make sense or satisfy you.

1. I like to. The front jacking point is on one of the front cross members, but I jack it up on each side on the frame rails and put the stand next to it. Then repeat for the other side. You can reach it without doing this, but it can get a little messy. Last time I didn't jack it up and got hot oil on my hands.
2. I guess I answered the jacking points already; I would get a jack with a high lift range for lifting SUVs and trucks. Hydraulic floor jacks are the easiest to use.
3. Well, I don't quite understand this one. You would have it on stands, then you take them out and lower it while it is draining? I don't think theres a need for this. Just leave it on the jack and stands while it drains so you have room to get the plug back on before you refill the crankcase.
4. The beauty of the V6 is that the filter is right on top of the engine. Have you opened your hood yet? If you have and missed it, its just right of center, in the front and on top. Its literally right in front of your face.

Good luck with the oil change.