First, thanks to Bill Weismann, Vic Naumann and others on oil change tips.
I was going to change it for the first time back in November, but with a
lot of rain coupled with business trips, etc, the car only had 1k on the
previous oil change the dealer did as of this week.
But I wanted Mobil 1, so I finally went out and did it (see, there are x300
owners that do change their oil!!! [at least one anyway!]).
A couple of interesting observations:
-
I had the car on ramps, but aiming down the driveway, so the car was only
slightly nose up. I could see the “lump” at the far forward end of the oil
pan (by the pullys) that must be holding at least half a quart. However,
there is no large plug, etc. to open. So that oil will have to stay. -
The owners manual says the total capacity is 8.5 quarts (U.S.). Because
of the lump up front, etc., I expected to not get up to 8 quarts out. But
when I re-filled it, it took exactly 8.5 quarts (so I assume that there is
only a little old oil trapped). -
I expected a deluge when I removed the filter, so I had paper towels
packed under it. However, after I took it off, replaced it with the new
filter, and removed the paper towels, the towels were bone dry. Not a drop
spilled from the filter (real strange considering the filter angle). The
car was up on the ramps for probably 30 minutes draining from the plug
first, and it was plenty warmed up when I started.
BIG QUESTION: The dealer gave me three free oil filters (Bosch 72147) when
I purchased the car. However, when I took the old one off, I saw that it
was longer than the new ones the dealer gave me (and of course it was too
late in the day to try to get another one). The one I took off is also
Bosch (72175). Does anyone know if it’s supposed to be 72147 or 72175 The
oil pressure is the same, so I don’t think there is any back pressure from
the smaller filter.
If it’s supposed to be the longer one, I’ll just get a new filter and put
it on (since I didn’t have any problem with the filter dripping oil this
time, I assume I’ll still be lucky.
Please let me know on the filter size (and if anyone has any
recommendations regarding filter brands).
No other problems with the car, so that’s all I can report.
Oh, one thing. The CD changer decided not to eject the cartridge
yesterday. All six disks play with no problem, but it is like the eject
button is dead. Anyone have any ideas? The dealer took one look at it and
make an appointment for me to go in so they can remove the whole player and
send it to the factory (probably just to Alpine) to get it out. Any reset
or manual reject button / switch that anyone knows about? Warranty or not,
what a waste of time to have to go in for this.
Gordon
'97L
'96 Ski Nautique
'85 535i