[C320-list] C320 Oil Change

[jonvez at comcast.net]

Ralph,

This is a solution that I have thought about. Could you provide more details in terms of the difficulty in removing the pan (including the mess it must create) where you tapped etc?
Also for those who puncture their oil filters to pre-drain. I tried this one year with a screwdriver and stopped because I felt like I was creating too much force at the threads and did not want to damage the fitting or strip the threads in any way. Perhaps I was too cautious, so I continue to use the bag with oil absorbers every season--

Regards,

Jon Vez

-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: "Ralph Winkler" <capt-wink at aepro.com> 

> This thread has been hashed over several times if I recall back about four years 
> or so ago. 
> 
> There is a solution to the oil change issue apart from the oil filter change. 
> That is a messy job that I've found works best with a zip loc bag and a couple 
> of disposable dippers. 
> 
> The real answer is just preplan with LOTS of dippers. 
> 
> Those of us with Yanmar engines don't have the drain plug Ken mentions in his 
> thread. However, there is an option for us Yanmar users. I took off the oil 
> pan and had it drilled and tapped for a 1/4" brass elbow. >From there I 
> installed a short USCG fuel line rubber hose with a LOCKING ball valve. Now 
> when I change oil I just remove a plug from the valve, open valve and suck the 
> oil into my little vacuum can. Take about five min. 
> 
> Ralph Winkler 
> Wind Dancer 394 
> Milwaukee