Hey guys, I'm ready to jump out and *seem like an idiot around cars, but I assure you that's not the case

Went to change the oil in my wife's 2002 Montero Limited. I removed the splash shield (4 bolts) and can easily see the oil filter.
However, I could not, for the life of me, locate the OIL DRAIN PLUG.

I searched hi and low, but there doesn't seem to be much info on this vehicle on the internet. I did see someone mention the drain plug is a 17mm bolt, can someone verify this is correct?

Once I find this drain bolt, I'll be sure to spread the knowledge to other Montero strugglers. LOL.

Thanks

 

Keep looking "low" - it's a drain plug.
Driver side, past the front sub frame assembly. It is much closer to the front than you'd expect - no more than 10 inches back from the oil filter location. If you are looking at the very long rectangular oil pan without any drain plugs in it, you are too far back and looking at the transmission. Have your buddy grab you by the feet and drag you few feet forward

 

Thanks Hunter
I see you mention driver's side.... but then also mention the oil filter. The oil filter is on the passenger side, not the driver's side.
Pictures are worth a million words...... happen to have one?
Is it indeed a 17mm bolt head?

 

99-02 service manual.

https://bmillerdiy.files.wordpress.c...ubrication.pdf

Looks like your drain plug should be in the same place as mine, right on the front of the oil pan.

 

Thank you Jeremy! Saved

 

I was just trying to orient you in relation to the oil filter, which you located. It was meant as front to rear localization and then move over and look on the driver side of the engine for the drain plug. Glad you got it sorted out.