Fumoto oil drain valve vs ValvoMax, in the real world with average techs

If this is overthink ... please forgive.

First, I understand this:

> Both Use a tube to redirect draining oil AROUND the skidplate
> Both can direct into a jug instead of splashing out of a floor pan or bucket
> Both allow no hot oil on the hands

But also:

> Valvo is lower-profile, but need their special tool to push the ball-plug back
> Fumoto is higher profile but is protected by RCI skip plate and has a plastic bit to prevent opening accidentally

Do the two mechanisms really compare in reliability?

In the real world I might have to rely on folk not familiar with this special hardware for oil work. Seems like it might be over-think for so few encounters, but we are talking "engine oil":

> Do they just remove with a wrench and reinstall ... sometimes badly?
> Do you need to carry the Valvo tool in the vehicle at all times?

 

Can’t really comment on the special tool, but I can say that even the least skilled oil monkey under the vehicle can figure out my fumoto.

(Though, now that I have it, I kinda doubt they’ll ever get under there again, since it makes changes so easy.)

 

I have the Fumoto and the RCI skid plate for the past 4 years. Still works like brand new. Why would there be reliability issues? If the oil is being changed every 5k-7k then there isn’t anything going to clog the back end. The skid plate protects the Fumoto and a quick spray of brake cleaner dislodges any dirt that might be in the level mechanism.

 

I agree about "when I have it, they will not". Special tool for Valvomax is a tube-head you screw on that pushes a back pressure-sealed ball bearing. But there is no external push unless I guess you push some tool (nail-set tool maybe).

Thansk for the assurance that simple observation should be enough on the Fumoto.

 

Thanks for the snaswer. Worth the question I think. I like "one and done", especially when it is 5k or 10k usage.

 

Here’s my take
The fumoto is brass
valvomax is steel
The fumoto end is open to the elements. Could be prone to failure.
The valvomax has a screw on cap
Cover
The valvomax has a Lower profile less risk of catching on road hazard causing consequential damage. (Some vehicles might have different clearance’s mitigating or increasing risk)
as for having to carry the valvomax adapter around. Big deal. It goes in a ziplock bag in glove box. Out of sight.
So I got to give it to the valvomax because of the cover. I only wish it was brass too.

 

Been running the Fumoto for three years without the locking tab but protected by a BAMF skid. I usually do two oil changes at home per year. No complaints, no leaks, no trail damage. Easy and clean, too, with one hose on the oil filter drain and one on the Fumoto.

It can sometimes be difficult to get the lever to flip open, but, honestly, that's a good thing, and it's also mostly because the skidplate has a pretty small drain hole and I always ended up crawling under from the driver side only to remember that's it's easier to flip from the passenger side.

 

I’ve been running a Fumoto valve in the FJ since it was bought new in July 2008. It’s a rock solid valve, no issues, no leaks. I installed a Fumoto in the Tacoma when I did the 1st oil change at 450

I wouldn’t want a steel valve that is subject to corrosion & seizure. And another special tool just for change the oil…..no thanks. Just doesn’t make any sense at all.

For me, I think either is a better option than a factory drain plug. It’s easier, it’s cleaner, and it’s really pretty much idiot proof. Either option is a good choice.