Tech Stuff

Engine Oil Change

Oil changes are simple and straightforward and can be undertaken by anyone who is prepared to get their hands dirty. Many owners find it very rewarding to carry out their own basic servicing. If you can do some maintenance yourself, the saving you make on labour costs will allow you to service your classic more regularly, and buy the best service parts and oil available.

To drain the old oil you will need to be able to get access to the underside of the engine. To get at the sump drain plug you will have to raise the car, either by driving it up a pair of service ramps, or by jacking it up with a hydraulic trolley jack (capable of lifting one and half tons or more) and then supporting the car on a pair of purpose built axle stands.

Shopping list
One UK Gallon of Engine Oil (approx 4.5 L)
Oil filter
Drain plug washer
Hand cleaner
Oil Type

Always use a good quality oil, putting cheap oil in your classic is a false economy. To ensure the best possible running and to prolong engine life, always use the correct grade of oil as specified in the handbook. Leading oil manufactures have now re-introduced formulations specifically for your classic MG.

Oil filters
The early MGB engine has a canister type oil filter with a renewable element, later models had a screw on cartridge type filter. Make sure you buy the correct oil filter for your engine and that it is made to the original specification.

Tools required

Drain plug socket or spanner Oil filter wrench Quality jack Axle stands

Service ramps Oil filler can Waste oil container