I don't want to sound like a dumb --- but I am new to the whole do-it-yourself thing and want to change the oil on my '05 Dakota. I've never changed my own oil before and any instructions and assistance would be greatly appriciated. Thanks.

 

tools, pan to catch the oil, oil filter, take plug out let drain put plug back in take oil filter off let drain wipe off were oil filter is put new one on fill up with oil of your choice

 

pretty simple need any more help just say i can give you a lil more detail if you want but it is pretty easy

 

BTW make sure the engine has COOLED DOWN before you start. I've seen a neighbor drain it hot and end up with burns.


Also dont use teh oil filter wrench to tighten the new filter. Hand tight + a 1/4 more will suffice.

 

It should be somewhat warm though. Warm oil brings any crud along better. (At least that's what my motorcycle's service manual says...)

 

Also, make sure that you dip your finger into some clean oil, and run it around the gasket of the oil filter. This will help seal it.

One thing you could do is buy an extra quart of oil, pour into the engine, and let it run back out. Helps take out any extra dirt and any pooling dirty oil in the pan and in the engine. Something that I used to do all of the time.

When your done sealing the filter, tightening the oil plug under the pan, and pouring the oil into the engine, start it up for 90 seconds. That'll help get the oil to flow through the engine. Turn off the truck, let it settle for a couple of minutes and check to make sure that the oil level is right on the dipstick.

Just be safe for your and the truck's sake. Have fun.

 

I installed a Fumoto oil drain valve in my 05 4.7 at the first oil change. Whoever thought that it was OK to put a crossmember directly below the drain plug was an idiot. Now I simply attach a hose to the Fumoto valve and drain it straight into a jug. Not a drop spilled. Makes oil changes almost pleasurable.

 

Where do ya get a "Fumoto oil drain valve"?

 

Here's the website

http://www.fumotovalve.com/

 

What happens if someone is pissed at you. Lift and turn. There goes the oil , all over the ground.