Oil Change & other fluid maintenance

[totc]

I changed the oil for the first time. I started by running a 1/2 quart of Dexron transmission fluid at idle for 1/2 hour prior to dropping the plug and draining the oil. The car seems to consume oil at a greater rate than what I am used to seeing. I suspect some sludge buildup. I also changed the PCV previously and saw a drop in oil consumption with that item.

The process itself went ok. It wasn't the worst oil change I've ever performed, nor was it the easiest. That honor goes to my Subaru Outback Sport.

Being a 1mz car, I had some trepidation about changing the filter on a hot motor. I used to work at VIOC and have the forearm scars to prove it. Alas I was successful in keeping my hide intact and look ma, no oily blisters!

The car has been recently serviced for the timing belt and water pump, so the coolant is new. However, the last verifiable service for the power steering fluid indicates it was done at 87k, and the car now has 152K on it. Is this something that I should do? What is the recommended service interval and is there a DIY thread on it?

I am going to bleed brakes and clutch sometime soon also. That oughtta be fun. I think speed bleeders might be in my Camry's future.

[BMR]

Flushing the PS fluid is pretty easy. Here's a DIY thread for it. I don't think there is a recommended change interval.

[Jimnist]

+1 to the DIY above. Works a treat. However, i found that i had to continually turn the steering wheel to pump the fluid out - it didn't self-siphon. If you want to be extra thrifty, just buy the 3/8" connector. To cap off the reservoir, cut off an excess bit of tube and jam some silicone or a bolt and hey presto! Sealed end.

While you're at it, may as well change the fuel filter. The factory Denso one is probably still on there.