Oil Change on 31'
As with almost any inboard on a sailboat, due to very limited space underneath the engine, you should invest about $15 in a small hand oil pump sold by almost every marine store. The dipstick is very conveniently (you'll see what I mean) placed on the starboard side of the engine and may be accessed (but not seen) by the engine top and forward covers with a little bit of acrobatic prowess. The design, however, suggests you remove everything off the top shelf under the galley sink, tilt the top shelf down, and remove the engine access cover. Here you can use the hand pump to remove the old oil from the engine into any old container via the dipstick hole. Luckily, the fill cap is on the top of the engine. For the oil filter, I recommend buying the type with the sprayed-on non-skid for ease of removal later. An oil filter wrench almost never fits on a sailboat engine compartment (unless it's over about 40') so adhesive non-skid is a great way to get a good grip on the old filter. I keep a roll of 1" adhesive non-skid tape onboard at all times for similar jobs. Other parts you should keep onboard is a spare set of belts for the engine. finding the right size for the water pump pulley proves difficult if you want to replace it with the original size V3, 19". However, I've found that a 3/8" by 21" long works well; the adjustment arm has plenty of swing to keep the belt tight. You will probably have to find a 21" belt at a tractor supply type of store versus a regular automotive store. Good luck on finding what you need. The larger belt is a very standard size and found almost anywhere. When you replace belts, you should also vacuum/clean up all black dust particles in the engine compartment left by old worn belts. Periodic checking of both belts and dust can indicate time for replacement. Have Fun!
