TD Prados Take Note........

I'm sure those Toyota engineers( or any for that matter) don't think things through enough when they design these motors.

Not sure which engine you are refering to, but I imagine that it is probably the 1KZ-TE (as fitted since about 97/98).

I have a '95 Surf - also fitted with the 1KZ-TE engine - and it has a funnel shaped casting where the inverted oil filter is situated. The casting funnels oil down a tube to a point near the sump plug.
The idea is to 'crack' the filter undone, then undo only enough to let the oil slowly run out of the filter, into the funnel casting, then down the tube. If the filter is completely undone before it has drained - it will overflow the funnel and the oil will drop onto the starter motor.

Firstly I would make sure that the plastic hose is firmly attached to the funnel casting outlet.
Secondly if the hose is attached, make sure that it isn't blocked, or kinked - if it is then the funnel will overflow oil onto the starter motor.

The oil on the starter problem with 1KZ-TE engines only happens if the filter is removed in a hurry, and not allowed to slowly drain down the funnel/drain hose that Toyota incorporated into the design.

I have made my own vehicle less messy in this regard by fitting a longer hose than original - and the filter and sump drain at the same time into the same container.

I'll second what Tuco says. Theres a metal funnel that makes filter changes mess free. Best design I've ever seen. The drain tube can block with mud,so may need cleaning out.

Your mechanic is doing the right thing. Sounds to me like he accidentally spilled it after unscrewing the filter.

Cheers
Phil

Before you undo the filter why not put a thick piece of rag over the starter just in case?. Merry Christmas to all. May Santa smile upon you and your families.