ScottCC

I've had my 1986 Porsche 911 for years and have always had the oil changes done by my mechanic in the past. I have acccess to a lift and I'm going to attempt it on my own and was wondering what type of oil should I use and what quantity? I think I've been using synthetic 15-50. Isn't it 14 quarts with the filter? Any pittfalls to look out for?
Thanks

rusnak

Get a large drain pan. 10qts. Use a Mahle oil filter. You are about to be baptized.

whalebird

ScottCC. It's easy, but definitly do a search here(from the menu above the forums list). There is an important protocal to follow when refilling. If you overfill it, you will be VERY unhappy. Review the process and chime in with specific questions.

ivangene

oil comes out (shoots out) FAST !!! (and far)

it can overfill the top section of a pan with a small hole in the top, get a BIG pan with a BIG hole. I found the oil filter a little tough to get started the first change... it compresses some seal around the inner fender that makes it tough to get straigh, be careful when its right it is easy. Torque settings on the motor seem high to me, I "tightened" mine, not full torque, more closely the same torque as the tank.

add 10 qts then start and warm it it, top off in small amounts checking frequently and no need to be at the top... somewhere between the marks is good... a little low is better than any over...

OH get VR-1 or Brad Penn 20/50 they are going to both be safe and well regarded

ScottCC

OK! Great...thank you! I'll do some research and dive in. My friend has one of those large funnels on the stand with the tank at the bottom...that should do it..thanks for the help!

rusnak

You should learn how to check the oil as well. The oil temp should be at least 180F, car idling on level ground for a minute or so, and oil should be filled to the half way point on the dipstick. Let the engine idle for at least 30 secs before re-checking. The oil will be initially low, but don't panic. It's better to carefully add oil than to overfill then try to remove oil, as already noted. Do not overfill!!!!!

salukijac

Have a Bentley Manual handy.

ron mcatee

After draining the tank, I punch a hole in the filter (top) with a screwdriver. I then wrap a rag around it and the screwdriver and use my air hose to put a little air pressure in the filter to evacuate any excess oil. Just let it drain into the tank and pan with the other oil. If not, you'll have oil all over the inside of the engine bay when you remove it..

sig_a

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You really don't need a lift. 15 50 Mobil 1. WIX or Mann filter. If you buy one of those black polyethylene combo drain pan/jerrycans, make sure you get one with at least two drain holes. And don't to forget to remove the pour cap on the jerrycan to allow for the air to release freely as the old oil flushes full force from the engine crankcase and reserve oil tank. Don't attempt to drain both at the same time. As it is your first time, use caution and plenty of cardboard and mop up rags. You will likely save about half, but ruin a perfectly good pair of jeans. Just kidding -- it's easy. One other thing, DON'T forget to use one new or used washer on each drain plug. If not, you will have leaks.

ScottCC

Great advice! Thank you...and good idea Ron, about the air pressure. thanks

rusnak

I would probably not do the air trick thing. You might blow dirt back into the oil tank, with all due respect I'd rather just wipe up dirty oil with a paper towel and throw it in the trash.

dshepp806

torqe those plugs to spec.

Best,

Doyle

theiceman

after you do it you will wonder why you have been paying all that money in the past .. as Doyle pointed out there are other threads that will tell you everything.
The only additional advice i might give is if your doing it on the lift is DONT CRUSH THE OIL LINES. If you or your budy with the lift isn't used to 911s he/you can easily crush them with the lift. also don't forget new sealing washers. for the tank and crankcase plug.

ScottCC

Excellentt point...I met a retired Army Colonel at the gym who has a car just like mine...1986 911, and it was overheating...he had just purchased it. He took it to a reputable mechanic, and was told that was exactly what happened...it was put on a lift and pinched one of the oil lines. Cost $10,000 for the rebuild.
Thanks!

dshepp806

$10K?????WTF happened?

Doyle