Re: Oil change question on Mercruiser 5.0
Okay, quicky clarify: if your filter is mounted upside down and when you change it, no matter how long you've waited, there is no oil in it, you're either using the wrong oil filter or one with an inadequate anti drain-back valve. <br /> When you loosen the filter from the housing, oil will not drain out until the nipple is free from the filter threads. We use oil absorbent pads found at any marine parts dealer, or you can use anything absorbent, but please don't use plastic bags. Here's why: as an oil reclamation facility accepting used oil and filters from the public, I HATE when the public brings me plastic bags full of oil and filters. The plastic starts to decompose immediately upon contact with the caustic used oil and makes a mess everywhere, including the trash where some people throw away this toxic waste. Be responsible and get the proper disposal equipment. For most of you a 5 gallon bucket for your used oil and filter ONLY is the best solution. Place all other lightly soiled material in its appropriate trash or recylcing bin.<br /> As you remove the filter, have your absorbent material surrounding the filter base in order to catch the drops, and as you finish loosening the filter, quickly flip it right side up and place in your bucket.<br /> When you fill to spec with your oil capacity, run the engine for 10 seconds AFTER your oil pressure gauge comes up to pressure. Wait about 2 minutes and then check. This allows the oil to drain out of the head and valve area and back into the crankcase. Your 5 Liter should take about 5 1/2 quarts with filter.<br /> As a note, look for a 3/8" black hose running up the port side of the motor with a brass plug in it and a brass hanger. If your engine has this oil drain tube use it instead of the dipstick in order to drain all the oil out of the block. Good Luck.
