recommended checklist for first-time oil changer?

[Schizoid]

I've checked out the many posts on the forum about oil changing and have a pretty good idea of what to expect and what to look out for. Would anyone like to suggest a checklist of supplies and/or tools I should have available for my first oil change? I've never changed my own oil before, but I'd like to try.

What do you think? Ramps for the front wheels, wheel blocks in rear? Will all the oil drain correctly if the car is angled like that? What sort of wrenches should I have available? Stuff like that. THANKS!

 

[JDM Sam]

19 mm socket or box end wrench, oil filter wrench or pliers to remove stuck on filter, drain pan, towels shop rags, oil and filter would help also. drain the oil first then tighten the drain plug no more than 20 pounds torque thats not that tight its just snug. remove oil filter, watch out for oil in the filter still that drip out itll burn if its hot. lube the gasket on the new filter with some fresh oil. when u get the filter finger tight turn 3/4 turn and ur done fill u with 3.8 qts oil. and check dip stick. start car and run and check for leaks.

 

[Apexi]

id go to your local mazda dealer and pick up a couple drain bolt washers...theyre cheap..so get a few to avoid the trip next time....this'll help prevent sretching the pan threading if you do overtighten by accident

 

[bruce95fmla]

www.mazdaformance.com has those washers for 50 cents each if you have not noticed.

Their oil filters are by far cheaper than the ones in the store. I ordered 10 of them lol ..
actually I ordered 12 ..

And don't forget to have some degreaser next to you so that you can clean up any oil that spills on the ground.. and try to use some plastic gloves for contacting oil
Bruce