Well this is my first post to this group. A lot of interesting information here. As far as oil changing is concerned, we are going to new oil removal system which includes banjo type fitting at oil pan drain and a pump up in the engine compartment that will allow us to fill recycle jugs and be done with this oil drain mess. On our Honda Hybrids we are also remoting the filter up top to get away from the under pan. The under pan is probably necessary as it is doubtful that they would go to the trouble if it was not necessary. It needs to be kept in mind that the negative pressure can effect cooling and noise. Tow things to consider before removing in permanently. We have not done the oil drain mods. yet, so will report experience here as time goes on. Bill T. '82 300SD, 2000 Honda Insight 5 speed, 2003 Honda Civic CVT Hybrid