How to Change the Oil Filter for My 2.3L Engine 2001 Ford Ranger

The 2001 Ford Ranger 2.3-liter engine takes a canister-type oil filter, which is installed on the driver's side of the engine. The engine requires 4.1 quarts of 5W30 oil. Synthetic oil and a can of oil treatment can benefit the engine's longevity. Oil changes should be done with regularity every 3,000 miles for maximum life expectancy. Clean oil is the single most important item in maximizing the life span of a motor.

Instructions

1

Start the engine and allow it to run for five minutes to thin the oil. Shut it off. Raise the truck by placing the floor jack under the frame, just behind the front tire. Place a jack stand next to the floor jack and lower the truck so that it rests on the stand. Raise the other side in the same manner.

2

Place the drain pan under the oil filter, on the driver's side, in the middle of the block. Turn the filter counterclockwise with the oil filter wrench.

3

Spread a little oil on the rubber O-ring on the new filter and spin it on clockwise by hand. Tighten it hand-tight only -- do not use the wrench. Move the drip pan under the oil pan.

4

Remove the drain plug, using a wrench. Allow the oil to drain for 15 minutes. Install the drain plug and tighten with a wrench to the point that it is snug. Do not torque it and do not over-tighten it -- the oil pan is so thin, it only has two or three threads. It is extremely easy to over-tighten and strip the threads, causing a leak.

5

Remove the oil pan from under the truck and lower the truck. Raise the hood. Remove the oil filler cap and pour 4.1 quarts of oil in the engine. Replace the oil filler cap.