How to Repair an Oil Pan Drain Plug
- Step 1: Preparation. In order to start on this project, you have to get underneath the car first. You have two options.
- Step 2: Remove the Old Plug. Fit a bolt extractor into the head of the drain plug and use a hammer to pound it in. Do...
- Step 3: Determine Measurements. First, determine the diameter of the oil pan drain plug by using...
How do you repair an oil pan?
Police say that Charkowsky threw the hot oil on the victim’s face and then beat him with the frying pan so hard that the metal hand broke ... News about their progress and what's being done to repair those problem areas. For more than ten years ...
How to fix a rusted and leaking oil pan?
Remove the plug and drain the oil pan, collecting the oil in a container for hazardous waste disposal. Clean the exterior surface of the pan as thoroughly as possible, identifying all the areas of rust. Sand all rusted areas with metal-grade sandpaper -- not just the metal around the hole -- removing the rust and making the metal rough.
Where can I find a replacement oil drain plug?
Important Notes and Afterward
- It is very important to thread the oil pan drain plug straight in. ...
- Let the JB Weld dry overnight (approx.15 hours)
- Apply Anti-Seize to the center part (the Piggyback) and thread it into place. ...
- When you go for an oil change, make sure they are familiar with the oil drain plug you have inserted. ...
How often should an oil drain plug be replaced?
- idle the engine for 5 minutes to warm up the engine and oil.
- open the fill cap on top of the engine
- Undo the plug underneath (with a catch pan under that of course).
- undo my oil filter cap (on top of the engine in my 2.8 l duramax) and remove the old filter and seal/o ring/ gasket (whatever you chose to call it).
- vacuum the interior of my car. ...
How do you Rethread a drain plug hole?
0:4410:21HOW-TO Repair Stripped Oil Drain Plug Threads - Video - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that all the aluminum shavings can stick to the bit. Now if you do get a few shards that stayMoreSo that all the aluminum shavings can stick to the bit. Now if you do get a few shards that stay inside the case there is a screen right above the oil drain plug.
Can you fix a cross threaded oil pan drain plug?
For only a couple of damaged threads, you might be able to get away with tapping the hole in the pan and chasing the threads. If it's worse, you'll have to drill, tap and install a HeliCoil. Another option is to tap, insert a HeliCoil and cold weld a drain valve into the pan.
How do you fix a stripped thread in an aluminum oil pan?
1:314:58How to Repair A Stripped Out Aluminum Oil Pan - EricTheCarGuyYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you strip your new drain bolt out. It's a game over got to put in a new oil paint on it. So I'mMoreOnce you strip your new drain bolt out. It's a game over got to put in a new oil paint on it. So I'm going to save you this time. But remember for next time let's get started from this point forward.
What happens if oil drain plug is stripped?
Furthermore, a stripped drain plug can lead to oil loss, if the plug is unable to be properly tightened. This leaking oil can often be seen on the underside of an engine's oil pan. In such cases, a proper repair will be necessary to prevent extensive oil loss and eventual engine damage.
Can I use Teflon tape on oil drain plug?
0:205:58Should you use PTFE Tape for your Car Oil Drain Plug ? Let's test.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOf people says that is perfectly fine they have used PTFE tape on their drain plugs all their livesMoreOf people says that is perfectly fine they have used PTFE tape on their drain plugs all their lives and they had never experienced any problems with their engine.
How long will an oversized oil drain plug last?
If properly installed, an oversize oil plug is a viable 'repair' and much easier than pulling an engine just to replace an oil pan with a new one. If the plug seals, it will last for many years. Sometimes these will weep or drip if not done correctly, so watch for that issue.
Can you helicoil a drain plug?
Install a Helicoil Sav-A-Thread insert! It's for a stripped spark plug hole, but works just as well as a new oil drain plug hole! Here's some pics on my just completed job.
What's better Time-Sert or helicoil?
After doing a bit of research it sure seems to me that the Time-Sert is the clear choice for a more full-proof 'permanent" fix. The only advantage to a Helicoil I found, is that it is cheaper. Being in the industry for a little while I have seen time and time again, that cheaper is never better.
How do you helicoil an oil pan?
8:4811:33Stripped Oil Pan Repair Time -Sert / Helicoil Perfection! MUST WATCH ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHand remember we need loctite on the outside of the insert. And oil on the driver. I'm going toMoreHand remember we need loctite on the outside of the insert. And oil on the driver. I'm going to slowly work that. In. And then with our socket.
How much does it cost to replace an oil drain plug?
The general range is between $100 and $350, but there are some vehicles that cost more. You can get an oil pan gasket replacement for between $40 and $150. The part is not the most expensive part of the repair, but the labor can be very intensive.
How do you drain oil without drain plug?
2:143:19How to drain oil without a drain plug - Harbor Freight Oil Suction Gun item ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut when you need a suction or gun to get the oil out this will actually do the job and apparentlyMoreBut when you need a suction or gun to get the oil out this will actually do the job and apparently do it quite well $12.99.
How do you seal an oil pan leak?
1:192:23How to fix a leaking oil pan WITHOUT CHANGING IT - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo go ahead and drain the oil wire brush it then take some carb cleaner a braid cleaner spray theMoreSo go ahead and drain the oil wire brush it then take some carb cleaner a braid cleaner spray the area to get it clean. And that will just evaporate really quick because it's what it does.
How to determine the diameter of an oil pan drain plug?
This is determined by the tightest fit that the gauge can move up and down the plug. Now find out the thread count with the thread pitch gauge. Once you have determined the measurements of the diameter and the thread count use the information to determine the correct rethreader die.
How to rethread oil pan?
Put the rethreader at the top of the shaft of the oil pan drain plug. Get the ratchet and corresponding socket for the rethreader and make the rethreader go to work by turning it clockwise. Apply some lubricant spray while you’re doing this. When you reach the end of the shaft, remove the rethreader counterclockwise.
Can you replace an oil pan drain plug in 2021?
Written by Doityourself Staff. on Mar 13, 2021. Since an oil pan drain plug is removed and placed back in during every oil change, it is understandable that it will eventually wear out and need replacement. Replacing the oil pan drain plug is more advisable than repairing it, since the plug is relatively cheap and should function better.
Why is my oil pan drain plug not fitting?
A stripped oil pan drain plug can be especially frustrating because it will leave your oil drain plug loose causing a constant leak. If the threads are completely stripped it can even lead to the drain plug not fitting at all which would leave your engine completely empty of oil and unable to be ran. If you find yourself in this position you’ve got ...
Can aluminum bolts damage threads?
The downfall of aluminum is that it is much easier to damage threads as a similarly sized bolt will hold much less torque in aluminum. The most common places this happens in a motor is valve covers or intake manifolds bolting to aluminum heads or oil pan drain plugs threading into aluminum oil pans. A stripped oil pan drain plug can be especially ...
Can you use drain plugs on 2009 Acura MDX?
If an oversized drain plug is available for your vehicle, like it was for the 2009 Acura MDX in the video above, it is by far the easier option. These drain plugs can cut new threads in the soft aluminum of your oil pan allowing you to keep your current oil pan installed and drive leak free!
What is an oversize drain plug?
An oversize drain plug is a combination drain plug and tap that cuts new threads into your existing oil pan. You simply start the new plug into the old thread and tighten. The tapered end literally. cuts new threads into the oil pan and the upper portion of the bolt seals against the pan.
How to fix stripped threads?
A helicoil is a great way to fix stripped threads. You drill the stripped threads out, tap threads into the new hole, then thread in the heli-coil. This method works for most applications. But it isn’t the best solution for oil drain plugs. Here’s why.
Why won't my bolt head seal?
To work properly, the oversized drain plug must be perfectly square to the stripped opening. If it’s not, the new bolt head won’t sit flush with your oil pan and it won’t seal. 2. It cuts shallow threads.
Why does my engine run dry?
An oil leak from the drain plug can cause your engine to run dry. That will destroy your engine.
Can you use rubber oil drain plugs for long term?
Yeah, they’ll get you out of a jamb. Never count on a rubber plug for the long term. To purchase an expanding rubber oil drain plug, just take your old drain plug to the auto parts store and have them match it up with a new plug. OR, refer to this oil drain plug size chart.
Why does my oil pan drain plug leak?
Originally, manufacturers used steel, which is durable, but as demand increased, they chose soft metals like aluminum. If the seal breaks or the bolt threads are destroyed, oil will leak. Engine oil is necessary to keep moving car parts lubricated.
What to do if oil pan threads are damaged?
If the threads are completely damaged, the oil pan may need to be replaced, which is expensive. If you are traveling and notice the problem, you can use rubber plugs, but they are only a temporary solution. Other options include replacing your existing plug with a Helicoil or TIME-SERT seal. If your oil pan is new but the oil drain plug seal cannot ...
How to prevent oil leaks in a car?
Installing a rubberized drain plug is a temporary solution and you should not leave it running for long. Make sure you push it into the oil pan to prevent it from leaking. To ensure that there are no leaks, run the engine at normal operating temperature and check the oil pan again for leaks.
How to prevent oil pan from leaking?
To ensure that there are no leaks, run the engine at normal operating temperature and check the oil pan again for leaks. 2. Helicoil repair. The Helicoil is a robust steel thread that provides a permanent solution for leaks in your oil pan.
How to stop oil leakage from oil pan?
1. New hole. This is possible if the original oil drain plug is not damaged and the seal seems to be preventing oil leakage. You can drill a new hole in the oil pan and install a new plug and seal. To ensure that the old oil drain plug does not leak, use a self-expanding rubberized oil plug. This should only be done when ...
Can you replace an oil drain plug?
Other options include replacing your existing plug with a Helicoil or TIME-SERT seal. If your oil pan is new but the oil drain plug seal cannot open, you can drill a hole in the side of the pan and add an additional plug. Make sure there are no visible leaks before driving.
Can you replace an oil pan drain plug with a copper plug?
Exert more pressure on the plug and it will eventually come loose. You can replace your existing oil pan drain plug with a copper plug. When replacing the plug, avoid overtightening, otherwise you will have the same problems as before.
What to do if your oil pan is damaged?
First off, it might be difficult to remove, so avoid using vice grips , as those may strip the head. Use the proper-sized socket with the right number of sides. Once the damaged plug is out, a rubber plug can serve as a temporary solution, but shouldn’t be relied on long term.
What happens if your oil pan is leaking?
Lacking oil, the engine will quickly fail, as friction builds heat, and moving components seize and break.
How to repair a hole in a pan?
Your options for repair depend on the severity of the damage. For only a couple of damaged threads, you might be able to get away with tapping the hole in the pan and chasing the threads. If it’s worse, you’ll have to drill, tap and install a HeliCoil. Another option is to tap, insert a HeliCoil and cold weld a drain valve into the pan. If your best efforts fail, you’ll have to replace the whole pan.
Why do you need to change oil on your engine?
Routine oil changes are an essential part of keeping your engine happy and healthy. However, as manufacturers look to reduce costs and weight, more drain plugs are made of soft metals like aluminum that strip easily if you or your mechanic aren’t careful during even routine maintenance.
Can a stripped oil drain plug cause engine failure?
A stripped oil drain plug can lead to major engine failure, so take a moment to learn about the best practices for avoiding it and what your options are for repair if it’s too late.
Does A Rubber Oil Pan Drain Plug Work?
The Self-Threading Metal Oil Pan Drain Plug
The Solution!
- It was then suggested we get a self-threading tapered piggyback oil pan drain plug and some JB Weld to cold weld it in place. This turned out to be a great idea, an easy process and hopefully a final solution to the problem.
The Process
- Drain just about every drop of oil from the car. This can take a while.
- Jack the car up in the front, so it tilts away from where the oil pan drain is located. Any remaining oil will pool in the back of the pan, well away from the drain.
- Clean the drain plug opening thoroughly with brake cleaner or acetone and let the car sit in that position until the oil pan drain opening is perfectly dry.
- Drain just about every drop of oil from the car. This can take a while.
- Jack the car up in the front, so it tilts away from where the oil pan drain is located. Any remaining oil will pool in the back of the pan, well away from the drain.
- Clean the drain plug opening thoroughly with brake cleaner or acetone and let the car sit in that position until the oil pan drain opening is perfectly dry.
- Mix the JB Weld. Squeeze equal parts of the steel and hardener onto a paper plate and mix thoroughly.
Important Notes and Afterward
- It is very important to thread the oil pan drain plug straight in. Make sure it is not on an angle before you start threading it in. Tighten it with a wrench.
- Let the JB Weld dry overnight (approx.15 hours).
- Apply Anti-Seize to the center part (the piggyback) and thread it into place. The Anti-Seize wil…
Update
- The oil leak has not returned as of 04/3/2015! This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. Content is for informational or entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business, financial, legal, or technical matters.
Questions & Answers
- Question:where do you find the piggy-back drain plug? Answer:I believe we went to AutoZone. They can be found at most auto parts stores, or they can order it for you. Question:Did you get any metal shavings in the oil pan using this method? Answer:No I did not! Question:How much would a mechanic (not a dealer) charge for fixing this, because I know to replace the full pan would be …