[JimD]

Good article. Two recommendations, however. First I think it's very worthwhile to get the cap wrench for the oil filter that Bavarian sells for about $15. You do not have to have it but it seems like a good investment to me. Secondly, I have a sideways drain plug in my SUV and I hated it. So I bought a quarter turn ball valve drain plug that has a pipe nipple on the outlet. A short length of clear hose from the home center allows me to drop the oil straight down into the drain pan. It would allow you to leave the pan on but have no mess. The one I put on my SUV has been used 4 or 5 times (I change it every 5K miles with QS synthetic) and works great.

Jim