monacobmw

I decided to change my oil on Sunday on my own.

I put the oil pan underneath the drain plug (the plug is a screw).

The drain plug is on the side of the oil chamber.

I forgot that liquid will shoot sideways if the plug is on the side (just like what would happen if you removed the spigit from a full water cooler).

I guess you need to put the oil pan to the side until most of the oil is gone. Then it will fall with gravity. The weight of 7 quarts of oil creates some nice pressure, and the oil shoots out quickly.

Just passing on this tip for others who may make the same mistake.

beaker

You could also stuff a piece of cardboard into the opening and use it as a backboard to divert the oil flow. That's what I always do, and it's worked perfectly.

dbusiness

Also watch out for any hoses or metal for steering or what not that are near by.
Nothing like being surprised by the oil splashing you in your face to wake you up.