OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit Review

Let’s Talk About OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit promises a mess-free and efficient way to refill automotive cooling systems. Manufactured by OEM TOOLS, this kit aims to eliminate spills and trapped air, often encountered during coolant refills. Its appeal lies in simplifying a task that can quickly become frustrating and messy, making it a potentially valuable addition to any garage, whether professional or DIY.

For years, I’ve battled the dreaded airlock while refilling coolant, a situation that often leads to overheating and further complications. Seeking a solution to this recurring problem, I stumbled upon the OEM TOOLS kit, drawn in by its claim of a spill-free and air-bubble-free coolant filling process. My initial hope was to find a tool that would save me time and prevent the coolant showers I had grown accustomed to.

Unboxing the kit revealed a collection of plastic components: the funnel, several adapters, and an extension. The plastic felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, although a bit lightweight, and the adapters seemed well-designed to fit various radiator necks. However, I couldn’t help but wonder about the longevity of the plastic, especially with repeated exposure to engine heat and harsh chemicals.

Compared to using a standard funnel or the “burp-it-yourself” method, the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit seemed a more sophisticated solution. While standard funnels often lead to overflow and air pockets, this kit promised a sealed system, a stark contrast to my previous experiences. My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism, stemming from past disappointments with similar products, but I was hopeful this kit would live up to the hype.

First impressions were cautiously optimistic; the kit seemed well-organized and potentially effective, but the real test would come with its first use. The claim of being the “best made” and “most innovative” sets a high bar, and I was eager to see if the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit could clear it.


Real-World Testing: Putting OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit came during a coolant flush on my aging Jeep Cherokee. I chose this vehicle because it is notorious for trapping air in its cooling system. The weather was a mild 70 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for working in the garage.

The kit proved relatively easy to use, although selecting the correct adapter for the radiator neck took a bit of trial and error. Once the adapter was secured, the funnel fit snugly, and the fluid stopper worked as intended, preventing spills during the filling process. However, I did notice a slight wobble with one of the adapters, which made me a bit nervous about potential leaks.

The OEM TOOLS kit largely delivered on its promise of preventing airlocks, though not entirely. The filling process was noticeably smoother, and I observed fewer air bubbles escaping compared to traditional methods. The only hiccup came when trying to remove the adapter after the refill; it was a bit difficult to detach, requiring some careful maneuvering to avoid spilling any remaining coolant.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple coolant flushes on different vehicles, the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit has proven to be a valuable addition to my toolkit, though not without its limitations. While the plastic construction has held up reasonably well, I’ve noticed some minor staining from prolonged exposure to coolant. Regular cleaning with soap and water helps, but the stains persist.

Durability-wise, the kit shows minimal signs of wear and tear, though I’m careful to avoid over-tightening the adapters to prevent cracking. Maintenance is straightforward; rinsing and drying the components after each use is sufficient to keep them in good condition. Compared to the frustration and mess of traditional coolant refills, the OEM TOOLS kit is a significant improvement, making the task far less daunting.

However, it doesn’t entirely eliminate the need for burping the system. Some vehicles still require additional air bleeding, despite using the kit. While the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit makes the process easier, it’s not a complete replacement for thorough troubleshooting.

Breaking Down the Features of OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit

Specifications

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit is designed for universal compatibility with most domestic and import cars and light trucks. The kit includes:

  • A no-spill funnel with a fluid stopper and vent.
  • Five high-quality, one-piece adapters.
  • Extensions for hard-to-reach surge tanks.
    The adapters are designed to fit a wide range of radiator neck sizes, ensuring versatility across different vehicle makes and models.

The most important specification is the variety of adapters; without them, the funnel would be useless for many vehicles. The fluid stopper and vent are also crucial, as they prevent pressure build-up and potential coolant spills, thereby enhancing safety and ease of use. The extension allows for filling systems that are difficult to access, increasing the kit’s overall functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit performs its primary job of filling cooling systems with minimal spillage effectively. While it doesn’t completely eliminate airlocks in every vehicle, it significantly reduces the amount of trapped air. This results in a smoother coolant filling process and reduces the risk of overheating.

The kit’s biggest strength is its ability to provide a sealed system during coolant filling, minimizing spills and mess. However, its weakness lies in the plastic construction of the adapters, which may not be as durable as metal alternatives. Overall, the kit meets expectations for its price point, offering a convenient solution for coolant refills.

Design & Ergonomics

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit features a simple, functional design. The plastic material keeps the weight down. The funnel itself is easy to grip, and the adapters are straightforward to attach.

The kit is mostly user-friendly, though finding the correct adapter initially can take some trial and error. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible for both experienced mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction raises concerns about the long-term durability of the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit. While it has held up reasonably well so far, I anticipate potential cracking or breaking with prolonged use, especially in extreme temperatures. Maintenance is simple; rinsing the components with water after use is generally sufficient.

However, the plastic is susceptible to staining from coolant, which can be difficult to remove completely. Replacement adapters may be necessary down the line, depending on the frequency of use and the conditions it is subjected to.

Accessories and Customization Options

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit comes with five adapters and an extension, offering a range of options for different vehicles. There are no other official accessories or customization options available from OEM TOOLS. However, the kit is compatible with standard coolant types.

The kit’s compatibility with standard aftermarket coolant is important for users with specific needs or preferences. While there are no formal customization options, users can purchase additional adapters from other brands to further expand the kit’s versatility, if needed.

Pros and Cons of OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit

Pros

  • Significantly reduces coolant spillage, keeping your workspace clean.
  • Helps minimize airlocks in the cooling system, preventing overheating.
  • Includes multiple adapters for compatibility with various vehicle models.
  • Simple to use, with a minimal learning curve, even for beginners.
  • Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.

Cons

  • Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
  • Adapters can be difficult to remove after use, potentially leading to minor spills.
  • Doesn’t completely eliminate the need for burping the system in all vehicles.


Who Should Buy OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit?

This kit is perfect for DIY mechanics and car enthusiasts who regularly perform coolant flushes and refills. It’s also a great addition to the toolkit of professional mechanics seeking a more efficient and less messy way to service cooling systems. Anyone who values a clean workspace and a simplified coolant filling process will find this kit beneficial.

However, those who only occasionally need to refill coolant or who prefer the traditional method might find this kit unnecessary. Also, mechanics working primarily on heavy-duty vehicles with unique cooling systems might require a more specialized kit.

A must-have accessory for this kit is a quality coolant tester to ensure proper coolant concentration. Additionally, consider investing in a set of pliers specifically designed for removing hoses and clamps to make the job even easier.

Conclusion on OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit

The OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit offers a convenient and relatively mess-free solution for refilling automotive cooling systems. While its plastic construction raises some durability concerns, the kit’s effectiveness in reducing spillage and minimizing airlocks makes it a worthwhile investment for many users. The price is justified for the convenience and time savings it provides.

I would personally recommend the OEM TOOLS 87009 No-Spill Coolant Filling Plastic Funnel Kit to anyone seeking a simpler and cleaner way to handle coolant refills. Give it a try and say goodbye to coolant spills!

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