Pour oil into an awkward filler without spilling

On some engines the filler hole sits where oil runs over the engine as it goes in. A guide helps.

You need

• A clean piece of stiff wire, or an old dipstick from a car, and a clean cloth.

Steps

1. Wipe the filler neck so no dirt enters.
2. Put the wire or dipstick into the filler hole so that it leans against the inside of the neck.
3. Hold the oil bottle spout against the wire or dipstick.
4. Pour slowly, keeping the bottle as upright as you can. The oil runs down the guide and into the engine.
5. Stop when the level is near the mark. Wait for the oil to settle, then check the level: Check the engine oil level.
6. Wipe up any spilled oil. Oil on a hot exhaust smokes and can burn, and it hides leaks.

Check your work

• No oil on the engine casings and the level is between the marks.