The best kind of technology is helpful and easy to use. That being said, we present the funnel in its many forms. While the true origins of this simple device are unclear, its utility knows no bounds. The word we use comes from the latin infundibulum, and may or may not have something to do with wine pouring Frenchmen. Though a great jet-age breakthrough in plastics technology brought the affordable funnel to the automotive masses, steel is still a viable choice for certain chemicals and tasks. A metal version funnel with built in screen filter and semi-flexible spout is an often used part of the Clunkbucket arsenal of tools and helpful equipment. The funnel is essential for getting oil in the crankcase instead of all over a hot exhaust manifold, or engine coolant into the radiator instead of onto the ground. When it comes time to pour automotive fluids, use a funnel for the win. Just don’t use the same funnel to make funnel cakes.
During the oil change I did yesterday, I just used a piece of printer paper held in a cone shape by masking tape, since my oil funnel was all crapped up from sitting outside all winter. It worked well.
Don’t forget field expedient funnels, older BMW motorcycles have a tucked away oil filler and I have made offset funnels for gas station top ups by cutting the top off of a discarded 1 quart oil bottle. It’s a perfect fit and costs nothing.
Behold! The dip stick technique: