i would prefer to drain oil from the top.however,after reading you reply i have to wonder if your way is better and worth the extra effort.you say that draining gets the sludge.are you also saying that you can't get the sludge by sucking it?if you do indeed drain overnight,when it comes time to start in the morning (upon filling) are you worried about the engine having no oil for what must be several hours and then being started?i can understand that after a normal oil change there would be a film on all parts to start until oil pressure gets to normal.it seems to me you should prime the engine before starting.i'd be interested in trying your method but first i would need info on priming.

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'95 s500 (bought for wife but can't bear to share!!!) 125kms
'92 legend 180kms
'88 tbirdturbo(fantastic car-only regular maint.)120kms
'87 mustang gt(gone)
'86 tbirdturbo(gone)
'85 mustang gt(gone-but not forgotten)