OEMTOOLS 87042 18 Gallon Portable Oil Lift Drain - Shop-Ready Oil

In this review the OEMTOOLS 87042 18 Gallon Portable Oil Lift Drain is evaluated for shop mechanics and home pros who perform under-lift oil changes. The bottom line: it is a practical, well-built oil dolly that saves time by combining a large 18 gallon metal reservoir, an adjustable 17 in funnel that reaches 44.5 in to 68.5 in, and pressurized self-evacuation via a standard 1/4 in NPT M air coupler. For busy workshops that need a mobile, high-capacity drain the 87042 delivers reliable fluid collection and convenient evacuation with only a few tradeoffs.

Key Features

• 18 gallon tank: The generous capacity reduces the number of trips to dispose of waste oil, coolant, or transmission fluid during busy service days.
• Adjustable funnel height: The funnel extends from 44.5 in to 68.5 in so it reaches vehicles on a variety of lifts without awkward positioning.
• Large 17 in funnel with screen: The wide funnel and built-in filter screen prevent debris and dropped parts from entering the reservoir, keeping collected fluids cleaner.
• Pressurized self-evacuation: With a standard 1/4 in NPT M air interchange the tank uses shop air to quickly evacuate fluids, speeding turnaround between jobs.
• Portability on casters: Large swivel casters make it easy to roll the dolly around the shop and position under vehicles, reducing downtime.

Who It's For

This oil lift drain is aimed at independent shops, quick lube bays, and dedicated DIYers who work with lift-mounted vehicles and need a high-capacity, mobile drain solution. It fits technicians who value an adjustable funnel height and pressurized evacuation to speed multiple service jobs.

Those who require an ultra-low-profile pan for very low vehicles or who need a heavy-duty commercial drain with upgraded hose materials may want to consider other specialized options; some users reported mixed impressions of caster stability and a cheaper-feeling drain hose.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large 18 gallon metal tank handles multiple fluid types so you waste less time emptying between jobs.
• Adjustable 17 in funnel and filter screen keep debris out and fit a range of lift heights for flexible use.
• Pressurized self-evacuation with a common 1/4 in NPT M connection speeds fluid removal and cleanup.
• Good build quality and finish give a professional look and durable feel in the shop.

Cons

• Caster stability is mixed for some users, so it may wobble on uneven floors or under load.
• The included drain hose feels less robust than the metal components and could be an early wear item in heavy use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The OEMTOOLS 87042 is a sensible choice for shops and serious DIY mechanics who need a portable, high-capacity drain that speeds oil changes and keeps the bay cleaner. Its adjustable funnel, debris screen, and pressurized evacuation offer real workflow benefits, and while the casters and hose are potential weak points, the overall build and functionality represent good value for routine under-lift service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it evacuate fluid using regular shop air?
Yes, the tank uses a standard 1/4 in NPT M air interchange for pressurized self-evacuation with shop air.

What fluids can be collected?
It is designed for motor oil, transmission fluid, and coolant.

How high does the funnel extend?
The adjustable funnel height ranges from 44.5 in to 68.5 in and the funnel diameter is 17 in.