The Fumoto valve is the best thing to come along since sliced bread. I
have a Ridgeline, and like most Hondas I think, it has an aluminum pan.
That means BIG bucks for replacement and threads can be more easily
stripped, even if you think you know what you are doing. Put the Fumoto
on once and thats it for the life of the vehicle. I replaced my plug
with a Fumoto (a $6 adapter is also required for Hondas) at the first
oil change. I purchased the kind with a nipple so as to be able to
attach a hose and run it directly to the oil catcher or bucket - not a
drop of oil on the hands or floor.

The spring is very stout and I doubt there is any way you could have it
fling or knocked open under normal circumstances. If I did lots off
roading with my Ridgeline, I would purchase the little optional device
they sell that locks the spring in place. Off roading is the only time
I might be concerned with a failure but even then I would think it is
remote.

This device not only makes changes a snap but it also makes it easy to
take used oil analysis samples. Many people want to see how their oil
is doing at certain mileage intervals rather than waiting until the
final drain. Just open the valve for a few seconds, take your sample
and shut it. The sample oil is replaced by simply topping off. A piece
of cake!

Another good thing about the Fumoto is that it works in any position,
even upside down. This makes it easy to put it in an accessable (or, if
one is overally concerned, in a more protective position). On my
Ridgeline, I had to position it to the side due to an exhaust part that
would make it too hot to get my finger in there to release the spring (I
change my oil when hot so as to increase flow rate and insure any
particles are suspended).

This contraption must not be screwed in real tight, just snug like the
normal drain plug. It requires a washer between the adapter and pan and
also between the valve and adapter. They provide washers and I used one
between the adapter and valve but for the oil pan I used one that came
with the Honda filter as it was thicker. I used the Honda crush washer
instead because in order to have the spring lever in the exact desired
position, you simply use a thinner or thicker washer as the case may be,
rather than trying to position it by tightening it further beyond just
"snug". This device is very well made and the customer support, via
email, is top notch. They are more than happy to talk to you about it
and answer questions.

I think the whole thing, with adapter and the more expensive nipple
style came to $35 shipped. That is the best money I've spent on this
truck since I've owned it.

MARTY