['97ventureowner]

I tried it once, and only once to access it from above.I probably should have been a little more clearer in my previous post in that if you stand in front of the engine you should be able to see the filter on the lower left area in front of the radiator. The way it sits on the engine is in an awkward position and you have to find a way that you are comfortable with in removing the old filter . I tried different oil filter wrenches that allowed me access with my socket wrench ( I had poor luck with the older style oil filter wrenches(one piece with attached handle).) What worked well for me was a 2 piece oil filter wrench I bought at Wal Mart. It is orange in color and is a universal type where it is graduated to fit many size filters. there is a place on the end where a socket wrench fits in and I also use an extension bar.
Out of all the GM vehicles I've owned (20+ to date,) I would say the Venture has been the worst to change the oil on because of the limited space you have to work in.