Thoughts on Fumoto Valves?

I have not installed it on my current PP (Prius Prime) yet, but I plan to install Fumoto as soon as my 2 free Toyota Care oil change is over and I start the DIY oil change. In addition to the ease of oil change with no mess, you can avoid repeated drain plug tightening which sometimes results in the stripped threads on the oil pan. I have Fumoto installed on our other SUV. So much easier, and no oil spillage. If you want to use the hose connection then I suggest using F-133S with a short nipple.

 

Not a fan, mostly due to keep-it-simple principle. Can they get sheared off?? The drain is a lot slower?

If you're DIY, abide by the torque spec (attached), it's pretty straightforward to just remove/install the drain bolt. There is a magnetic gizmo you can get to get a little distance between your fingers and the drain bolt. My son got me one, and I use it, mainly to appease him though.

As far as oil spills, there's always going to be a drop or two spilled. I find the oil filter swap is responsible, as often as not.

Info: OTC Tools 5911A Drain Plug Pro Magnetic Remover

 

Fumoto valves are very convenient and easy to to use for less mess.

However, the fact that the valve remains screwed up into the oil pan means that there will be a (small) volume of oil that remains in the bottom of the oil pan. This is confirmed by unscrewing and removing the Fumoto valve after the oil stops dripping out, more oil comes out.

What I do? Drain the majority of the oil out using the Fumoto valve neatly, then unscrew the valve, like a traditional drain bolt, to get the last bit of oil out of the oil pan.

Removing the oil filter, for me, remains the messiest part of the oil change.

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Personally, I prefer an aluminum drain valve with a magnet. Aluminum has less tensile strength and is more ductile than mild steel. It will sacrifice itself before deforming the steel threads in the oil pan. The magnet makes it convenient when the plug is unscrewed. It will catch itself on the steel oil pan and not drop into the drain pan. Then, all you need to do is to grab it with a paper towel and clean it before reusing it.