Changing the oil and filter for the first time on this civic. Is this bolt the drain plug?

 

nope look to the left more should be a 17mm bolt on the big black oil pan

 

 

 

That is the correct bolt for changing the transmission oil.

It looks like something it leaking on the backside of your engine.
Everything in the picture is covered in grime.

 

I'm gonna go huff some starter fluid to get on your level.

 

I'm glad you pointed that out. I do need to clean my motor. Is simple green plus a garden hose the best bet? I'd rather not attempt to use a pressure washer in my engine bay.

Also, no need to be overly degrading bEEsKnEEs. I'm positive there is someone on this forum that thinks all your questions require some huffing too.

Back on topic. You should check your transmission fluid too.

 

If this is your first oil change, please use jack stands.

And you'll probably make a mess your first time. Put some cardboard down to catch the oil you miss.

 

ok sorry bro, I didn't mean to hurt any feelings... so, an olive branch; If you wipe the mounting plate with a clean rag before you put the filter on, there won't be a chance to double gasket it. I like to wash the back of the block with a shot of brakleen after changing the filter to remove any residual oil that didnt wipe off the block.
Also, a new metal drain plug washer is good cheap insurance.

 

Is this your first time changing oil on any car ? Often overlooked is filling the new oil filter half way with oil, then letting the oil soak into the filter element. It lessens the oil starvation effect of installing an empty filter. Also dip your finger in the new oil and run it around the gasket of the new filter, a lubed gasket always works better than a dry one.

 

You might consider getting a helms factory service manual, it will save loads of time identifying problems. I learned a great deal about these cool little cars and have found an invaluable resource, this after working on old muscle cars for 30+ years. Makes the work much simpler.
Regards
Dave

 

You should be able to find a downloadable pdf copy of the owner's manual which also has instructions for an engine oil change, etc.

 

Thank you guys for all the help! I've heard from others that there is no need to add/replace transmission fluid in a standard. Also, i found the bolt and no it is not my first oil change. I just got a haynes manual from work and am looking into it. I replaced the filter (oldass fram) with a K&N perfromance one and use oil to lube up the gasket. once again appreciate all the help!

 

You should change the transmission fluid on a manual transmission at recommended service intervals.

 

Haynes manual is pretty horrible compared to a Helms. They are really that different.
It is not true about the transmission oil.
You do need to change it as tech8 pointed out.
Think about it, you have to change very fluid in the car at some time or another, why would the trans oil be any different? It wears out all the same.
I am purposely calling it trans oil rather than fluid. You can, per the service manual, use actual oil that you would normally put in the engine for the transmission - check it out in the service manual for yourself!
Automatics use a special 'fluid'.
Also, honda makes a special manual trans fluid that is basically oil with some special additives to help the trans live longer and work better. It really is worth the extra price - Honda MTF.

I personally change my trans oil every 3 or 4 engine oil changes. It is a bit much probably, but I do not intend to have any trans problems.

 

Alright awesome. I do planning on changing the tranny oil in the near future then... Is it as simple as changing the engine oil? Do i just drain and add? or should i replace the filter as well?

 

I don't think it has a filter. But it is quite simple. You either need to be on a level surface or trust your measurements. You drain it through the drain bolt first. Then you open the fill bolt and fill it until fluid drips out. That's when it's full. Or you can remove the VSS/trans-whatever on the top side and pour it in there. I've done that.

 

use a 6pt 17mm box end wrench to remove the fill bolt on the transmission.

its always a corroded and tough bolt. you will strip it with anything less than a 6pt 17mm the first time. even a 12pt will NOT work.

set it up and give it a good [edit] push with the legs. dont "kick it", youll get more strength into it by pushing with the leg.

 

I remember my first oil change. It's just the start man. Soon you will be knocking out water pumps and timing belts. Possibly swaps.

 

Me and the guys were bs'ing about tranny's the other day and from whatmy coworker tells me, its better off leaving your transaxle fluid alone if you have a manual. he said refilling it could knock dirt around that has been built up and only if its giving you trouble should it be changed. Whereas my haynes says every 75k miles or so.

 

that is true with automatic transmissions (ask me how i know) but not with manual transmissions