Oil changes are one of the essential engine operations that come with car ownership. Most people, however, tend to take their engine oil for granted. If you clearly understand what engine oil does, you will always go a long way towards ensuring the maximum life and health of your investment.
If you have ever thought of DIYing an oil change, this article is a recommended read. More often than not, a conventional oil change is usually associated with dirty hands and oil spills. Fortunately, that is not the case nowadays. Finding the best oil drain valve is the first step towards an easy and quick oil change.
They are not expensive, and they make work easier. This read will review the best oil drain valves for 2020, making it easy for you to pick one that suits your needs or vehicle. Just follow to the end, as a value for your time is promised.
Top 4 Suppliers of Oil Drain Valves
Oil Drain Valve Suppliers
There are many oil drain valve companies out there. However, the question remains: do they all have quality products? Before you commit to a company to supply you with an oil drain valve, it is essential to find out its background, customer reviews, and products.
EZ Oil Drain Valve Company
The EZ drain valve company is a motor vehicle company based in Redmond, Washington, DC. The company is known for making oil changes easier, quicker, and cleaner. A typical EZ oil drain valve replaces a standard oil drain plug. To use it, you only need to lift the lever on the nickel-plated brass ball valve and open it by making a quarter-turn. They manufacture oil drain valves for all engine types.
One of the key features offered by EZ is optional hose ends, which allow one to connect a hosepipe and drain the oil away from the engine. Depending on your preference, you may choose the straight or L-shaped hose ends.
More features include a nickel-plated body, a laser-etched logo, a Viton O-ring, and a plastic lever cover. They also have adapters that help prevent the draining valve from hitting the oil pan during installation. EZ offers a lifetime warranty on all its products.
The company may indemnify you for any damages resulting from a faulty valve or replace the product at no extra cost, provided you are in the United States. You can never go wrong with the EZ company. They offer all valve types for all kinds of vehicles.
ValvoMax
ValvoMax is an American, veteran-owned corporation that is passionate about making oil changes more manageable. This passion has driven the design, development, and manufacture of outstanding products for the market over the last three years.
Their headquarters are based in Houston, Texas. ValvoMax prides itself on listening to customer feedback to ensure customer problems are resolved and prevent others from arising.
If you are in the USA, they offer free shipping when you spend $50 or more. Their products never disappoint, and to assure you of this is a 30-day money-back guarantee. Any payments you make with them are also secure.
If you would like to save time during your next oil change, the ValvoMax oil drain valve is for you. They have a wide range of products such as disposable funnels, oil drain bags (collapsible), and quick twist valves.
An oil drain bag helps dispose of oil safely without polluting the environment. The funnels can be used to direct oil flow as you prefer. If you are not sure which size drain valve fits your engine, their website can help you find the perfect one.
Stahlbus Company
The company’s team comprises two passionate bikers who love wrenching on and optimizing their machines. The company is based in Germany, and with over 20 years of experience, you can be sure to find great products that will assure quality service and satisfaction.
Stahlbus is proud of the development and design of products that are easy to use and of high quality. They offer oil drain valves in three different materials. These are stainless steel, Eco-Brass, and corrosion-resistant steel, which are used for various purposes. Eco-Brass is known to be seawater resistant.
In terms of service, they are quick to answer our queries because they always put our needs first. Stahlbus oil drain valves are suitable for both bikes and cars. Also, they can help you find the right plug for your vehicle from their database.
Stahlbus manufactures a bleeder valve, which is an innovative, quick-bleed valve for all vehicles. It is especially suited for being used in place of rubber hoses. They also design and develop an oil drain valve for a safe, clean, and fast oil change. The oil drain valve can be used universally for industrial, marine, motorcycle, and vehicle cooling systems, and more.
Fumoto Oil Drain Valves Company
Fumoto Oil Drain Valve Company has been in operation in the US since 1991. They currently operate from their warehouse and office in Santa Rosa, California.
Fumoto has earned the trust of millions of end users in its operations for over 4 decades. Truck fleet operators, car and truck owners, and industrial engine manufacturers can attest to the impeccable quality, reliability, and proven performance of the Fumoto no-spill oil drain.
The company manufactures oil drain valves for all types of vehicles. Therefore, they have a wide range of products at your disposal, including accessories that make the operation of these valves more efficient. These valves feature distinctive designs to help differentiate them from other products. From their size and application chart, you can find a plug that best suits your needs.
The company responds quickly to customer reviews and requests for new designs. True to their need to hear from customers, Fumoto has a toll-free line that you can use to contact them. They also offer a lifetime limited warranty for their products. You can be sure to find the best oil drain valve with Fumoto.
Best Oil Drain Valve Reviews
01. Fumoto F-106N Engine Oil Drain Valve
This is considered to be the most compact ball valve. The Fumoto F-106N oil drain valve replaces an oil drain plug, offers easy use, and features a built-in half-turn valve. This valve has a 14mm thread that fits any Mercedes engine, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Ram 1500 Eco Diesel. It is one of the most efficient oil drain valves.
The FN series is manufactured with stainless steel and forged brass. Their sturdy construction assures you of a lifelong, dependable, and reliable service. The F106N offers one-touch operation for a clean, mess-free oil drain. It is also simple to operate and install. If you receive your order and are not satisfied with its functionality, the company offers a return policy that allows you to get your money back.
Highlighted Benefits
- Durable
- Easy to Operate
- 3 Months Money Back Guarantee
02. Fumoto F-106 Oil Drain Valve
This 14 mm oil drain valve also features a metallic finish. If you would love an easy-to-operate drain valve, the F-106 is the brand to buy. You can drain engine oil with just the touch of a finger. It also eliminates stripped threads and helps you avoid contact with the hot engine oil. The F-106 drain valve delivers on its promise to make changing oil a smooth, more efficient experience. If you install them according to the Fumoto guidelines, they do not leak.
The F-106 features a durable brass Japanese design that has been proven to stand the tests of time. F-106 may be a bit pricey for what it offers in standard use. However, it simply never disappoints.
Highlighted Benefits
- Highly Efficient
- Quality Manufacturing
- Long-lasting
- No leakage
03. Fumoto F106N FN-Series Drain Valve with Long Nipple and Lever Clip
The FN-Series Fumoto F106N features a long nipple and a Lever Clip for the M14-1.5. The nipple is used while attaching a drainage hose. It has a standard-length nipple that enables secure hose attachment. It is also a one-touch operation valve, and while installing, you should tighten the body but not the nipple.
The N-type valve is ideal for vehicles with ample ground clearance. If your car has lower clearance, it’s better to go with a standard SX-series or S-type valves. It’s also perfect for direct hose applications. It works efficiently to give you a clean and quick oil change.
Highlighted Benefits
- No contact with hot oil
- One-touch operation (Toll-free)
- Lifetime durability
- No messy clothes or hands
- Not too Expensive
04. Fumoto F106S with LC-10 Lever Clip FS-Series Engine Oil Drain Valve
Fumoto’s S series valves include the F106S model, one of the best oil drain valves. It has a compact ball valve that is designed to fit cars, vans, light trucks, and some commercial engines. It is manufactured from forged brass and stainless steel, which ensures a lifetime of reliable service.
The S-Series has a short 5mm nipple that allows you to attach a hose while draining. To use this valve, you can either use the optional SH-10 or SL-10 plastic socket or simply attach a hosepipe to the nipple. While installing the valve, do it by hand and then tighten it an extra ¼ turn with a wrench. For the safety of the valve, you should always drive carefully.
Highlighted Benefits
- One-touch operation
- Built-in safety operation
- Ideal for Sampling analysis
- Easy and mess-free oil change
- Ideal for oil sampling
05. F106SX: New Generation Fumoto Valve with 14mm-1.5 Thread Size
The SX oil drain valve is a new, trademarked, and patent-pending design comprising two parts: an oil-flow control body and a through bolt. These two features allow you to place the drain valve as you like for greater convenience.
The F106SX can rotate up to 360 degrees, which allows for orientation to achieve maximum protection and a smaller profile. It is highly versatile, thus allowing for easy installation without an adapter. The model is from the ISO-9001-certified Fumoto company. The model may be a bit expensive, but it is an efficient tool that makes DIY oil changes easy. Once you get used to its slow drains, you will be good to go.
Highlighted Benefits
- Durable construction
- It can rotate up to 360º
- No tools required
- Installation does not need an adapter
06. EZ-106 EZ Oil Drain Valve with Removable Hose End
The new and improved EZ drain valve is one of the best ways to change the oil from your vehicle’s engine. Its main feature is a removable hose end that resolves clearance issues. It has a nickel-plated body to help prevent tarnishing and an O-ring for a better seal.
Once you install this valve, you can quickly drain engine oil without tools and without a mess. You only need to lift the lever on the solid brass ball valve and then give it a quarter-turn. Once you return the lever to its original position, it locks and provides a perfect seal. The valve is manufactured with corrosion-resistant steel and forged brass.
Highlighted Benefits
- Corrosion-resistant manufacture
- One-touch operation
- Easy to draw oil for analysis
- Removable hose ends
- Eliminated stripped ends and frozen drain plug
07. EZ (EZ-106) Silver 14mm
The EZ-106 oil drain valve replaces the standard drain plug, hence making oil changes faster and easier. It also helps save on expenses and valuable time. To open the valve, you only need to lift the lever of its ball valve and then give it a quarter turn. To close it, you just have to return the lever to its original position.
The drain valve also comes with optional hose ends. The hose ends can be screwed into the valves to conveniently drain oil away from the engine. The hose ends can rotate up to 360 degrees and may be removed after use. The hose ends are also interchangeable, making them easy to remove after an oil change.
Highlighted Benefits
- Adjustable hose end
- A secure position with a built-in lock nut
- Perfectly prevents hose kinking
- It screws easily into the valve body
08. EZ Oil Drain Valve RZ-106RL Oil Drain Valve
The RZ-106RL Oil Drain Valve is from a renowned, trusted company. It comes with an L-shaped and removable hose end, 14mm-1.5. It is straightforward to install, as no tools are required. The valve is double-sealed to prevent leakage.
It was first manufactured in March 2014, and once you purchase it, you also get a hose-end attachment. It may not drain as quickly as a drain plug, but it tends to make the job cleaner and easier. It is simply the best oil drain valve, helping one drain engine oil without worrying about getting it everywhere.
Highlighted Benefits
- Easy to install and operate
- It does a clean job
- Double lock mechanism for increased safety
- No more contact with hot oil
- It comes with a hose-end attachment
09. ValvoMax Oil Drain Valve
This particular valve is famous for its sturdy 100% stainless steel manufacture, which assures a lifetime of excellent, reliable service. You do not have to keep searching for tools whenever you need to drain oil from your engine. It is also a fast, no-mess drain. The wave spring technology also helps save time. A proprietary wave spring enables the oil to move fast.
The valve is easy to install. Once you have it in place, you can forget about it. ValvoMax makes messy drainage a thing of the past. Moreover, the valve eliminates injuries, prevents spills, reduces time, promotes sustainability, and much more! The valve is made to outlast your vehicle. ValvoMax Oil Drain Valve is also available for M12-1.50 Stainless steel drainers.
Before using it, prepare the car for an oil change and then remove the cap. Oil does not begin flowing before you connect the drain tool. The drain tube pushes the check ball upwards, and draining lasts for about 10 minutes. For easy disposal, you can use a drain bag.
Highlighted Benefits
- Easy installation and use
- Wave spring technology
- Durable
- No tools, fast drain
- One-time installation
10. Stahlbus Oil Drain Valve Plug M12x1.25x12mm Steel M12 x 1.25 x 12mm
The Stahlbus valve was developed to enhance the performance of a comfortable, clean, and safe oil change. This valve easily replaces the existing oil drain screw, making installation easy. While changing oil, you only need to unscrew the cap and connect the hose connector to the quick-release. The valve opens only when this is locked.
After the oil change is complete, the bayonet then pops back out and goes onto the protective cap. Its installation is as easy as that of a standard oil pan drain plug. However, you should be careful when installing it. It may slow down oil drainage with time, but this is not a big deal. It is ideal for extra inspection.
Highlighted Benefits
- Easy handling and installation
- No tools are needed,
- Double outlet protection
- No risk of getting burnt
- The drain valve cannot get lost
- Copper seal
11. Stahlbus Oil Drain Valve Plug M14x1.5x12mm Steel M14 x 1.5 x 12mm
The M14 * 1.5 valve is an easy replacement for the existing drain screw. Its installation is as easy as that of a standard oil pan drain plug. However, you should be careful when installing it. It may slow down oil drainage with time, but this is not a big deal. It is ideal for extra inspection. Its body is manufactured from high-end steel with copper sealing.
The safety cap is made of anodized aluminum and features a very flexible silicone drain tube. It comes with an instruction manual that guides you on installation. The Stahlbus valve was developed to enhance the performance of an easy, clean, and safe oil change.
Highlighted Benefits
- Easy handling
- The sump thread spared
- Reduced risk of damages
- No tools needed
- It has a protective cover against loss via an O-ring
- Possible connection to suction
Oil Drain Plug vs. Oil Drain Valve
At times, the smallest part can create the biggest hassle. Without the right tool for the job, you may make a mess of yourself, have a hard time, or even detest DIY oil changes. Whether a plug or a valve, both are used while changing engine oil.
An oil drain plug is simply a threaded bolt made from soft metal, such as aluminum. It also has a sealing gasket that is fastened at the bottom of the side of an engine oil pan. A standard oil drain plug should offer a no-spill oil drain and be manufactured from brass.
The plug is often concerned with keeping your vehicle’s vital lifeblood from pouring out due to gravity or pressure in the crankcase. The plug may occasionally be removed to allow engine oil to drain when you change the oil.
An oil drain valve is similar to a drain plug, but more efficient. It replaces the regular drain plug to make oil changing cleaner and faster. When you need to change the oil, you only need to connect a hose to the drain valve and open it.
It is a handy tool for effective car maintenance, and with valves, you do not have to jack up your car for an oil change. They are also inexpensive to buy and suitable for almost any type of vehicle. It may, however, not be ideal for vehicles with low ground clearance.
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Buying Guide
Experienced car owners will tell you that even the smallest of parts can cause a huge issue for your vehicle’s health. One such component is the oil drain valve. You have to first look for the best oil drain valve before committing to buy it to ensure you get value for your money. Read on to find out what specs you should consider to avoid disappointment.
Oil Leak Prevention
As the name suggests, a drain valve is located either below or on the side of the oil pan. A suitable oil drain valve should provide a tight seal to prevent oil leakage while your vehicle is in operation. A light seal could mean the difference between walking all the way home and a safe drive home. If you notice a steadily decreasing oil level, the problem may be an old plug or valve.
Quality Parts
Today, there are many oil drain valves available with unique parts and manufacturing materials. A suitable valve is made of durable stainless steel, helping ensure a lifetime of reliable service. You should also be careful to select materials that can withstand the grind of the road. Some of these valves are built to last longer than your vehicle.
Ease of Use
A good valve should be easy to use and install. If it offers less convenience than the conventional drain plug, then it might not be the best choice. Some offer simple one-touch operation and an easy drain. The best way to find out is to read online reviews of the product you want to buy.
Correct Size and Specification
You would not want to be one of those customers who have to return a drain valve they have already purchased because they did not get the correct size or specifications for their vehicle at the ordering stage. If you are not sure, ask the experts, and they will tell you what your car needs.
Other Accessories
Some of these valves come with extra accessories included at the same price as those without. Some of the accessories you could get include an adapter, a hosepipe, a drain valve, and more. However, some are sold separately and help improve the valve’s efficiency when changing oil.
Price
Although it is often not a significant consideration, price may matter when you are deciding which brand to buy. You have to ensure you get value for your money. Also, remember that a high price doesn’t always mean the best quality. You can find cheap options that work just as well as the pricey ones.
An extra handy tip is that some of these valves are not suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance; hence, you need to check on that before making a purchase. The most important thing before making a purchase is always to be sure of what you need!
Oil Drain Valve (FAQs)
Can You Drain the Oil by Removing the Oil Filter?
The answer is No. For most vehicles, you will find that the oil filter is simply a cup that collects oil that drips from the filter mount. The filter is usually above the bottom of the engine’s oil pan, where most of the oil rests when the engine is turned off. To drain oil from the engine, you would have to use the drain plug at the bottom of the engine. Just removing the filter only allows a small volume to escape.
How Do You Drain Oil from a Car?
To drain oil from the engine of your vehicle, you may need a socket wrench to unscrew the bolt on the engine’s oil pan. Afterward, remove the cap on the oil filler hole and unscrew the oil filter.
You may as well require an oil filter wrench and an oil bag to hold the oil until you dispose of it. Today’s cars are fitted with oil drain valves that are much easier and cleaner to operate. You only need to turn a lever, and you are good to go.
How do you install a Fumoto Valve?
Whether it’s a Fumoto valve f150 or any Fumoto valve, installation is easy. It is typically done in three steps. First, you have to remove the drain plug from the oil pan, then fully drain the oil.
Secondly, you have to insert it into the valve, the through-bolt, but you should not press it fully into the body. Finally, hand-tighten the valve by gently threading it.
How do you tighten a Fumoto valve?
Tightening a Fumoto valve is easy. You only need your bare hand. Start by gently threading the valve into the oil drain port with your hand. After you make sure that the valve is straight, hand-tighten it completely.
You should, however, ensure that the valve is not cross-threaded. You should finally tighten the Fumoto valve on the Subaru Forester with a crescent wrench on the valve body by an extra 1/8 or ¼ turn.
Do you put oil in the filter when changing the oil?
After you drain the oil and change the engine oil filter, you have to add new oil. An underfill may disrupt the hydraulic pressure and lubrication of the inner parts of your vehicle.
Before installing the new filter, apply some oil to the gasket. This prevents the gasket from cracking, sticking, or even causing an oil leak. The filter keeps the oil clean; therefore, it should be swapped after every oil change.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has been fruitful in informing you all you ought to know about the best oil drain valve. An oil change does not have to be complicated. You only need to have the right valve and equipment for an easy, no-spill oil drain.
Fortunately, today, the world has become a village. You can purchase these valves from the comfort of your home and have them delivered to you in no time. Some preventive measures, such as oil changes and regular engine maintenance, are key to keeping a car healthy. However, some issues are bound to arise; hence, it is important to seek expert advice.
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