Can I change fuel filter, spark plugs and oil without jacking up the car?

[sasha055]

Hi,

Is it possible to change fuel filter, spark plugs and oil by just using ramps?
I got a set of rhino ramps, and I wonder if it's possible to do these DIY just by backing the car onto them.

Thanks
Sasha

[Samson]

No problem with the oil change.

You'll want to take the back wheels off for plug access, so I'd just use the supplied jack and a jack stand and do each side separately.

Ramps will work for the fuel filter change, but the relative lack of clearance makes it more of a ******************** than it would be on a lift or something. I had to use a mirror to see.

[tommy986]

If your car is old enough to need a fuel filter and plugs, it most likely needs a front motor mount. If you are moving and removing all the parts to get to the fuel filter, then the motor mount is right there.

[cas951]

Changing the spark plugs with the wheels on will be difficult. I'd suggest removing the rear wheels to get to the spark plugs. Using the ramp for an oil change is the way to go.

[dallison]

i would remove the tires and put it on jackstands. It doesn't take that much longer and will make accessability much better.

[Bob O]

As was said above, it's LOTs easier to change the plugs with the wheels off. The fuel filter can probably be done on the ramps but it's pretty tight up there. Be sure to wear gloves, glasses and a hat! You WILL get fuel on you when you disconnect the lines, so protect your skin as much as possible. I borrowed the lift at my mechanic's garage to do mine (what a great guy!!) Easy job when there's access to everything. And yeah.. you probably need a new front motor mount too, which is much, much easier with a lift. (I didn't think I needed one, but took Pedro's advice and did it anyway. My old one was completely shot, with pieces falling out of it when it was removed. There was probably less than 1/4 of the rubber left. Strange that I wasn't noticing any ill effects from it)

Have fun and BE CAREFUL!

Bob