Changing My Own Oil

[dmullen]

Yes believe it or not I have never changed my own oil. Now that I have this new RAM 1500 I want to do it myself. Pretty straight forward? Is the filter removable by hand?

 

[NYCruiser]

Get a filter wrench. The factory filters can sometimes be tight. Get a big zip lock bag, like gallon size, to put over the filter once you get it turning so you don't make a mess removing it. When installing the new one put some oil on the rubber gasket and tighten until snug by hand, then another half turn or so. I use ramps to drive my truck onto to raise the front. Make it easier to slide under there for me. A lot easier than jacking and standing. Get a big catch pan to catch the 7 qts of oil that will come out.
Check the filter for leaks afterward and you should be done. Will only take you 15 minutes once you've done it once.

 

[Burla]

It should be removable by hand, but depends on how strong the guy was who installed it. I would do that first, and if it is too tight take your oil to a quick lube and have them do it and tell them you don't want the filter too tight. I use a plastic bag like Cruizer said to catch all of the oil, works great. just dropped a little. Hold it up after you unscrew the filter for a minute or so and let it drain into the bag.

 

[mjd91]

My factory filter was tighter than ****!
Other than that it's simple. Not the best filter placement by Dodge but not bad.

 

[Burla]

I never tested mine from the factory, the first time I did it was after a dealer change so these guys may be right. When reinstalling the filter make sure you take some oil and rub it on top of the filter, the rubber ring. It is very important. I also rub it on the metal threads before screwing the new filter. and also 5w20, and read synthetic oil thread for good choices. have 8 qrts on hand, and check it after 7. If you emptied the pan and the filter was replaced, you wont be over filled at 7qrts, no chance. Get a synthetic filter if you plan on going 10k between oil changes. Royal Purple Filters are a great choice and there are others as well.

 

[WhiteExpress]

My factory filter was also on excessively tight.
There is some stupid myth that a tight filter doesn't leak.

2/3 turn past gasket contact is all you need.
There is a reason it's printed on every automotive filter.