brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

OK, So I just changed the oil in my new to me GS350. What moron at Toyota thought to redesign the oil filter from a simple spin on unit to this new canister deal? It looks to me like they are simply trying to discourage anyone from changing their own oil.

Amazingly stupid.

gr8fulRed

there is a a great DIY oil change tutorial on this site for the 3GS's. Yes, it's a canister style with removable/replaceable paper filter...but pretty simple procedure really. You may have to buy a special canister lid removal tool and a large socket (24mm) to use with your socket wrench. Both can be picked up on Amazon for pretty cheap. I think I got the non-toyota filter wrench cap for $19 and the socket for $4-6.

brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

Thanks, I was able to get it off and changed but the metal flute/tube up the middle puzzled me no end, as the unit came off in pieces. I think I got in back correctly, but I am not sure. I have not been able to find a picture of the canister and how the tube is supposed to fit in there.

Argggggggggggggggggggggggggggg! There is nothing wrong with a spin off filter.

MX73

Disregard the plastic tube that comes with the new element. I haven't seem used on any Lexus. I've seen them on the Rav4 that uses the same filter but that to drain whatever is in the filter. It probably applies to the ES, Avalon, Camry and whatever FWD Toyota with the GR series motor.

brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

Yes, I figure that out pretty quickly, as the place where that would be inserted had no place for it to go.

Thanks