Is the ground clearance in my vehicle too low to install a Fumoto valve?
If your vehicle has low ground clearance, please keep the following question in mind:
Is an N-Type (long-nipple) valve safe to use on a car or vehicle with low clearance?
Using an N-Type (long-nipple) valve on a sedan, coupe, or light truck may not be advisable. We generally suggest avoiding this model in favor of our Standard or S-Type (short-nipple) valves, as they have a more compact footprint.
However, if your vehicle is equipped with a skid plate or belly pan that protects the oil pan, an N-Type valve can be installed securely since it will be shielded by the plate.
- Please note: the F316L valve is a long nipple valve
Should I use a Fumoto valve if my vehicle has been lowered?
We generally recommend against installing Fumoto valves on lowered vehicles due to potential ground clearance issues.
However, a valve may be used safely if it is protected by the following factors:
- Protective Cover: Your vehicle has a belly pan or skid plate that shields the oil pan and surrounding components.
- Port Orientation: Your oil drain port points directly toward the rear of the vehicle rather than downward.
- Valve Choice: You install an SX-Series valve, which allows you to align the valve body and lever parallel to the wall of the oil pan for a lower profile.
While we typically advise against installation on lowered vehicles, these factors play a key role in safety—the most critical being the presence of a belly pan to protect your vehicle's undercarriage.
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