About to do an oil change for 88 rx-7. I used to own a Camry and the car is not as low so you don't need to jack it up to change the oil. Does one need to jack the RX-7 up to change the oil?

 

Im a pretty small guy and I definitely need to jack it up to change it comfortably. I can see someone being able to change it without jacking it up but it would be a huge PITA

 

Make damn sure to jack it up under the crossmember, (not the oil pan!) then support with jack stands.

 

You don't need to jack it up but I would definitely recommend it. If not your most likely going to be rubbing up against the bottom of the car and ground, not that fun in the middle of November.

 

never owned an fc so can't say for sure, but on my fb i never have to get under it to change the oil.

 

Thank you all.

rxtasy3, is the drain plug not under the car for a fb?

 

the drain plug is the same on all. it's just that i don't have a lot of clutter in the engine bay so the plug can be reached from top side. i can get a pic if u like.

 

Pretty sure the drain plug on the FB is on the opposite side as the FC. The FC has a lot of clutter in the drain plug area: power steering, AC compressor, etc.

You should get under the car anyway. Not only is it far easier to access the drain plug but while the oil is draining, it gives you the opportunity to inspect the front end and make note of anything that may be an issue. Things like ball joints, tie rods, all the rubber boots, bushings, etc.

 

Double post. Sorry.

 

^Agreed. Catching things like that, as well as small coolant or oil leaks etc. can save you alot more than the cost of a jack and set of stands. Ramps are also an inexpensive option and store pretty easy. You can buy a set rated for 8K pounds for ~ $40. Just block the wheels on the ground.

 

i have all the things necessary to get the car in the air. i've been doing my own car maintenance before some of u were even born, and have even worked in shops. the question was asked, "do u need to jack the car up to change the oil?" and my answer was no. this is how i choose to do it, it saves time. coolant leaks can also be found without jacking up the car. when i suspect problems else where that need the assistance of a jack then i use one. no suggestions how i should do it or while doing it is necessary. i took a pic so u can see it's "far easier" for me to do it standing on the passenger side rather than lying on the ground.

 

Whoa. I think the suggestions as to jacking, etc. were for the original thread question, not for your replies. Correct me if I'm wrong.

 

i would do what ever is easier it looks like you can reach it from the top. i would try it from the top first and if its a pain in the future jack it up.

 

First, Unless your currently wearing "Depends" and taking arthritis meds to reach that drain plug, I doubt you were doing this before I was born.
Second, I also grew up around cars. Was changing oil on work trucks and tractors way before I could legally drive them on the streets. Worked my way through college in my Dad's body shop.
Third, I was just giving my opinion to the same question... and a rationale for it. It wasn't intended to challenge your response. No offense intended.
Fourth, I bought an FB brand new way back in the day and didn't remember how much room there was. That pic reminded me. The most important issue in all this is getting the oil changed on a regular interval. Doing it your way may not be ideal IMO, but if it helps the OP keep on a schedule, it's worthwhile.

 

I installed a Fumoto oil drain valve (regular, no nipple) in all of my cars so that I can change the oil without jacking them up. Most aircraft have similar valves, and I have been using the Fumoto valves for over 20 years with good results. Other advantages include no stripped drain plugs, no replacing the crush washer, and the ability to drain just a little bit of oil if need be.
http://www.quickoildrainvalve.com/

Also required is a low-profile oil pan.

 

ha ha ur funny. i'm 48 don't wear depends and no arthritus. maybe not u but many were not born when i started working on cars.