Is it Okay to Change Oil on Ramps?
Changing oil on ramps can be a practical and effective solution for many car owners, especially those with limited space or limited mobility. However, it requires some precautions to ensure safety and effectiveness. This article will explore the dos and don'ts of changing oil on ramps, covering tips for stability, safety gear, and proper procedure.
Safety and Precautions
Here are a few important guidelines to follow when changing oil on ramps:
Stability: Ensure the ramps are on a flat, stable surface to prevent slipping or rolling. It's crucial to have a secure and level ground to avoid accidents.Weight Limit: Verify that the ramps can support the weight of your vehicle. This is particularly important for larger vehicles or those with high weights.Safety Gear: Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling off the ramps. This prevents any unintended movement while you work under the vehicle.Access: Ensure you have enough clearance to work underneath the vehicle safely. Check the height of the ramps to ensure they are not too steep or too short.Tools and Supplies: Have all your tools and supplies ready before you start. This includes new oil, engine oil filter, and other necessary equipment to minimize the time spent under the vehicle.Personal Experience and Tips
Most car manufacturers specify that the vehicle must be level to change the oil. In practice, many mechanics and DIY enthusiasts follow a different but equally effective approach, especially with vehicles that have hydraulic suspension. Using axle stands, such as those used for my Citroen, can make the process ridiculously easy. Here’s how it works:
Position the vehicle on the ramp and raise it using the axle stands until the car is clear of the the maximum suspension height, allowing the car to rise naturally.Turn off the engine and wait for the car to stabilize. This gives the car some time for the oil to under the car to open the drain plug and remove the oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter. Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain while you make a cup of tea.Once the oil has drained, replace the filter, air filter, and fuel filter as needed. Refill the engine with fresh entire process can be completed in about 20 minutes, with the oil still warm, making it a convenient and efficient task.Alternative Method to Ensure Full Drainage
To ensure that you don't miss draining all the old oil, consider the following method:
Remove the oil filter and raise the car to a level position (ideally between 20-60 minutes).After the oil has settled, raise the car back to a vertical position to install the new filter and add fresh oil.This method ensures that all the old oil is properly drained, even if the ramps aren't perfectly level. Remember to always warm up the oil before changing it for optimal performance.
Conclusion and QA
Changing oil on ramps can be a practical solution for many car owners, provided the necessary precautions are taken. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, following the guidelines outlined here will help you change oil safely and effectively. If you are unsure about any step, always err on the side of caution and consult the vehicle’s manual or seek professional advice.