evogt500

Today I started to change my oil and filter (with OEM parts of course). The last time my IS250 was serviced was by Lexus themselves . I usually do it myself, but it was a complimentary service they provided.

Since the lexus designers put the jacking location far back , i couldnt reach with my normal low profile jack. I bought the Rhino ramps from my local wal-mart, for $40. When I started to drive up the ramps, they would slide on my smooth garage floor. I had to tie a rope to the ramp and drive on top of the rope with the rear wheels. As i drove up the ramp the weight of the rear wheels held the ramp in place. Its not my first time doing a oil change, but it was my first time using ramps. I was too scared to do it my self so I needed a spotter.

Then, my local lexus service provider over torqued the Filter assembly and I stripped my SST FIlter wrench tool. I got so mad I decided to use a Monkey wrench and voila, the fiter unscrewed. It took me 2 and a half hours just to do a oil change. What a waste of time.

If this ever happens to you, I have a few tips. Wrap the filter assembly flange with a alot of rubber bands. It adds more grip and protects the delicate aluminum filter housing. Then use the monkey wrench and turn away. Dont forget to oil the threads and rubber gasket for a better seal and for the ease of maintenance the next time.

Just wanted to share my thoughts.

jmsharp02

iTrader: (2)

I give props to all the DIY'ers out there, even something as simple as changing your oil. I have yet to do any DIY to my car, but I will!

edgeucated

iTrader: (4)

Those filter wrenches are notorious for breaking, but i guess you rather have those break than strip the filter housing

heyarms

iTrader: (5)

Longest part of my oil change is me under the car cursing and trying to get that damn Lexus filter wrench off the filter housing... Hate that thing. Haha might go for the monkey wrench approach next time

evogt500

Sometimes I wish toyota/lexus would just use the regular canister type oil filters. Then I wouldnt have to worry about special wrenches and potentially breaking the filter assembly. The first time I did a oil change, the filter wrench did get stuck on the assembly. I had to use a flat screwdriver and mallet to get it off. And yes, I was also cursing and screaming whilst doing it.

Heckler

iTrader: (1)

I do my own oil changes as well and it is a pain in the *** because that damn filter wrench does not fit correctly. I have to tap it on and then it gets stuck and I have to tap it back off. I like the idea of using the canister over traditional filters but why the hell can't they make a wrench that has a precise fit?

evogt500

Your guess is as good as mine. They are probably made by some third party manufacturer.