I have changed my own oil on every vehicle I've owned since 1976 and while I have never pre-filled the oil filter, I have always checked for and many times found the dreaded "double gasket" gotcha. Since this is Oil Change 101, I think the final answer of to pre-fill or not to pre-fill can be left for the 202 class. But as everyone should know, check and then double check to make darn sure that the oil seal (gasket) from the oil filter being removed is not in fact still stuck to the engine block. I always check both the old oil filter and run my finger around the block too. My last piece of advice is for when you tighten the new oil filter. For me, instead of the x-amount of "turns" once it makes contact, instead I just "hand tighten" it as much as I physically can. Never use an oil filter wrench to put one on, but just twist it with all you got. I've never had one leak this way. Good Luck.

p.s. what mental midget put the darn thing right above the front axle??

 

Oh yah, that double gasket reared its ugly head this weekend! Went to change my oil for the first time in the Jeep this weekend and it was a real PITA to get the filter off. The fact that it's been on for a year (build date was 2/08, bought it in 11/08, just hit 5000k a week ago) didn't help matters. I usually check to make sure the gasket comes off, but sure enough, I didn't. Started the engine and about 5 seconds later I had 5 quarts of oil on my garage floor! I must say, I was amazed on just how fast the oil came out. Anyways, make sure you check that the old gasket has come off.

 

+1 Same here

 

I have never prefilled my filters even racing, it's a bar/beer argument

Thanx for bringing the oil change operation up, it'll ease some newer peoples minds

One thing I've always done, when time for the change, is run the engine for 5 minutes, then let it cool for 15, so it won't burn fingers

This will let the oil run smoother and break up any sludge pockets, so you can keep them at a minimum !!!

I never let the filter drop into the oil pan, that adds to the mess, I'm glad JEEP put the filter where they did, it's easy to handle and change, you can easily slip it into a recycle zip-lock bag, without any more mess

JIMBO

 

On my last Ninja 600 if you didn't prefil the oil filter the oil light would stay on every other time you changed it.
I always try to prefil it some.

 

Just another reason to change your own oil. You never know just what kind of banana oil the monkey is pissing into your engine at the dealer or places like Jiffy Lube.

 

about to change oil for first time in my jeep...What wieght should i use then..the factory recommemded......I have always used 10w30 in my past vehicles...i live in south louisiana so i dont have to worry about the cold....plus our winter is just about over...

i plan on changing my oil every 3000 miles( because this is habit and never had problems and i just like getting my hands dirty) i was thinking about making the switch to synthetic oil for the first time but if i plan on changing my oil that frequently would it just be a waste of money?
is there a site that expains the difference, benefits /cons of dino and snythetic oils in simpleton terms so a dumbass like me can learn somthing

 

Go with the factory recommended weight 5W-20 while under warranty. That way there is no BS about wrong oil used if an engine problem arises.

At least that's my opinion.

As for dino vs synthetic. You ask 10 different people you'll get ten different opinions. Check around this forum and google synthetic vs conventional oil.

Eventually you will see that there is no right answer. Just read the facts and make your choice.

 

Anyone got a torque spec on the drain plug?

Is there a crush washer down there to be replaced also?

 

Don't know the torque spec. I just tighten with a box end wrench till it feels right.

No crush washer found on mine.