560SL oil change

[rocky raccoon]

I searched the forum on this topic without results so I can use some first hand advice.

Changing oil on my 1988 560SL is a pain in the butt. Unlike the Benz sedans, the oil filter canister access is under the car. The car is so low that it has to be on ramps. Since I have to get under there anyway I have been draining the oil rather than suctioning. I prefer to suction if possible since it is less messy.

My questions are: Can the oil be successfully suctioned with the car on ramps? Will the tilt result in leaving a significant amount of old oil in the engine? Is anyone out there doing this with good results?

This is a superb forum and I like the way we all stick to business without devolving into silliness.

[Alkraut]

If you use a suction method to remove the oil, there is always some residual left in the pan. Putting the car on ramps should make marginal difference. This becomes less of an issue with these cars since they take an enormous amount of oil, and the residual is a small percent. Changing the filter is most important, as that is where the crap collects. So changing the oil by suction, with filter change, on a regular basis (like 3000 miles) should be fine. Use the same type of oil, if possible, so the residual will be totally compatible with the new oil.

Silliness on this forum? You can't be sure with a serious screen name like Rocky Raccoon.

[rocky raccoon]

Thanks Pal .... and how do you know it's not my real name.