Alternatives for Topsider
 

Is there a better quality (and somewhat more costly) alternative to the Topsider tool for withdrawing engine oil? Manual pumping is OK but I'm looking for better quality.

TIA,
Bud

Go to any boat equiptment supplier...
 

they should have better "tools" for sucking the oil... :D

Sure ... lots of expensive choices.

I have seen MB and aftermarket systems from $500 to $2500.

Check in The Star magazine ... or do search.

There are a lot less expensive alternatives- I use this one:

LiquiVac $49.95

http://www.cal-products.com/liquivac.html

Thanks haasman, do you know how much oil it will hold?

I currently have a 300E but I'm thinking of a new car with a capacity of 8 quarts.

Bud

Bud,

I know it will hold the usual 300E oil change ... I will look but I believe it is either 8 or 10 quarts.

The Liqivac isn't perfect but it does the job. Let me explain - I use a thicker tube that goes into the dipstick, hardware store item. It is best not to use with really hot oil because the tubes get too soft. Best also with warm oil to get a flow. Don't over tighten or over pump for intense vacuum.

Overall it is great. I used it to suck out ATF. brake fluid, PS fluid etc.

Bud, do a search using LiquiVac and you will find all kinds of info.

Or if you really want that feeling of DIY satisfaction.........http://home.earthlink.net/~asherson/Don/The_Topsider/the_topsider.html

Thanks Hassman, it holds 8 quarts. Should be enough for a new E500:)

jbaj007, will that brake fluid tool work with ABS brakes?

This unit is really nice.
I can't justify buying one, but I have used a friend's several times.

http://www.vacula.com/en/produkte/f_produkte.shtml

On the fence on this issue for years
 

Got tired of removing pan on the 400E and took the plunge. After hearing about hot oil problems with some units, I finally went with the "Oil Boy" brand from Boater's World ($49.00). It is constructed of much higher quality materials than the other units that I have looked at "Topsider", etc. Used it this past weekend on very hot oil with great result.

Won't go back to bottom drain again as this is too easy. BTW, Boater's World had an electric model for $129.00 that tempted me as I had been thinking about making my own with the $65.00 Proven Pumps model pump, but now that I have tried a high quality suction device that doesn't need priming, this appears to be the best way to go.

Keep us posted.

Vacula looks good but it appears you need a source for compressed air.

been using this for a while now:

jcwhitney

it'll suck out any amount of oil or liquid you want as long as your battery's ok and you have a large enough container. they go on sale too, got mine for $15 + shipping...

Griot's Garage has a unit for $64.95. Has anyone seen it or tried it?

TIA

Additional info on Oil Boy
 

It has a bicycle pump type handle to create vacuum, so no external power or air needed.