Q: What Are the Essential Steps to Perform Frequent Preventive Maintenance Oil and Oil Filter Changes on Lincoln Continental?
A: Frequent oil changes are important preventive maintenance procedures that can be done by the home mechanic. As engine oil ages, it becomes diluted and contaminated, leading to premature engine wear. Before starting the procedure, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a drain pan, rubber gloves, breaker bar, socket, and filter wrench. It is also helpful to have rags or newspapers nearby for cleaning up spills. Access to the oil drain plug and filter will be improved if the vehicle can be lifted on a hoist, driven onto ramps, or supported by jackstands. If you haven't changed the oil on this vehicle before, locate the oil drain plug(s) and the oil filter. Be cautious of the hot exhaust components when working under the vehicle. Start the engine and let it reach normal operating temperature before parking on a level surface and shutting off the engine. Raise the vehicle and support it on jack-stands, ensuring it is safely supported. Position a drain pan under the plug in the bottom of the engine and remove the plug using a proper size box end wrench or socket. Some models may have two drain plugs. Inspect the old oil for metal particles. After all the oil has drained, wipe off the drain plug and clean the area around the drain plug opening. Reinstall and tighten the plug securely. Move the drain pan under the oil filter and loosen the filter using a filter wrench. If the filter is too tight, puncture it with a metal bar or long screwdriver to loosen it. Unscrew the filter from the block, being careful to prevent oil from spilling out. Wipe off the mounting surface on the block and ensure no old gasket remains stuck. Smear some engine oil on the rubber gasket of the new filter and screw it into place. Remove all tools and materials from under the vehicle and lower it. Add new oil to the engine through the oil filler cap, pouring four quarts of fresh oil. Wait for the oil to drain into the pan and check the level on the dipstick. Start the engine and check for leaks at the oil pan drain plug and around the oil filter. Tighten if necessary. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. During the first few trips after an oil change, check for leaks and proper oil level. Dispose of the old oil at an oil reclamation center, auto repair shop, or gas station.