Oil filter spout

[tarponslayer]

When I take th oil filter off my 03 v-6 it leaves about 2-3 oz of oil in the filter spout. I have to use paper towels to soak up all the old oil before I can put a new filter on. Does anyone else have this problem or a easy way to fix it? I have stuck wire down what appears to be a drain hole to no avail.

 

[Jeff Kleb]

I do my own oil changes and know exactly what you mean. On my V-6 SR5, the little metal area where the filter mounts does collect some oil when you remove it.

Your 4Runner should have a small rubber cap on the drain hole next to the filter - facing downward, of course. Leave it on there when you remove the old filter, and it will indeed collect about three ounces of oil around the circular area when the filter is unscrewed. After you remove the filter and set it aside, put an empty bottle (an empty quart bottle of oil works well) under the place where the hole is and remove the rubber cap. 95% of the oil will drain into it with no trouble.

Sop up the rest with a rag or paper towel and then replace the rubber cap. Spread some oil on the gasket of your new filter and then you'll be good to go.

Save yourself a lot of money by changing your own oil -- and have the satisfaction of knowing it is done properly.

 

[tarponslayer]

Thanks! I would have never seen that drain plug. I guess you dont want the nasty oil in the filter draining back into the engine.

 

[Jeff Kleb]

Thanks! I would have never seen that drain plug. I guess you dont want the nasty oil in the filter draining back into the engine.

It won't drain back into the engine, but will end up on the engine. That is why the little rubber cap is (or should be) on the end of the drain hole by the filter. Make sure yours is there before you open the filter and risk getting the outside of your engine dirty.

Good luck!!