I have an 1988 Vanden Plas that I'm considering changing the oil myself. It has 88k miles and I drive it about 500 miles per year.

1. How often should I change the oil and filter?
2. What special tools do I need to remove the oil filter and drain plug?
3. Will all of the oil drain with the front wheels on ramps or do I have to level the car?
4. Is there anything else I should do?

Thanks for your help,
Big E

 

1) Depends on the oil you use. I change it every 7k miles but I use Mobil 1 synthetic. On an 88 I would stick to regular. Mobil Delvac 15W-40 would be an excellent choice. Unless you live in a really cold place.

2) I think the drain plug bolt is a 17MM, it's a very large. You need an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. DO NOT use it on the new filter just hand tighten it.

3) Having the car on ramps is no problem. I've done it many times and got all 8.5 quarts out.

4) When you put the new filter on, apply a thin coat of fresh oil to the filter gasket.

 

be careful with the drain plug as its easy to strip the threads orf it. do not use all the leverage of your spanner/ratsh1t to tighten it, as you will end up in deep doodoo