Options to repair a stripped oil drain plug
- Fix a stripped oil drain plug by replacing the oil pan. This is the best but most costly solution.
- Fix a stripped oil drain by installing a TimeSert insert. The kit comes with a drill bit, tap and insert. It’s the same...
- Self Tapping Oversize drain plug. An oversize drain plug is a combination drain plug and tap that cuts new...
What do you do if you stripped an oil plug?
oil plug stripped??
- Cold.country. I had an oil change and filter done about this time last year by my local Honda dealer. ...
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- _Wilson_. Ted this would be of some help ...
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- Goober. ...
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- Cold.country. ...
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How to remove a stripped or rounded oil drain plug?
How to remove stuck oil Drain Plug Step By Step:
- Warming Up the Car. One of the simplest ways of removing a stuck oil drain plug is to let the car warm up. ...
- Using a Socket Wrench. Socket wrenches are among the most famous tools used in automotive maintenance due to their practicality and flexibility.
- Use a Hammer. ...
- Using Rust Remover / Lubricate. ...
- Use a Gator Grip. ...
- Get Professional Help. ...
How do you remove a stuck oil drain plug?
Tips on How to Remove Stuck Oil Drain Plug
- Warm Up the Vehicle. To warm up the car, you can either set it into idle for several minutes or utilize the time of doing your short task.
- Utilize a Hammer. Drizzle infiltrating oil into the oil plug and allow it to settle for a few hours. ...
- Utilize a Socket Watch. ...
- Consider a Gator Grip. ...
- Put a bit of Lubricant. ...
- Ask the Help of the Professional. ...
How do you fix a stripped oil pan?
- Pour the olive oil into a large frying pan on a medium heat and add the onion, pepper and garlic. ...
- Add the tomato purée and stir into the onion mix. Then add the tinned tomatoes and break them up with a spoon (if using plum tomatoes). ...
- Add the sumac or lemon zest, chilli flakes and fresh herbs with some seasoning and mix well. ...
What is an oversize drain plug?
How to fix stripped threads?
Why won't my bolt head seal?
Why does my engine run dry?
Can you use rubber oil drain plugs for long term?
What do I do if my oil drain plug is stripped?
How to Remove a Stripped Oil Drain PlugGet a New Drain Plug. Before you get started, it's always best to ensure you have the necessary equipment to complete the jobs. ... Use Vice Grip Pliers. ... Unscrew It. ... Get a Drain Plug Repair Kit. ... Eliminate Damaged Threads. ... Tap Out New Threads. ... Flush Oil Pan. ... Install New Plug.More items...•
How much does it cost to fix a stripped 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.
Will a stripped oil drain plug leak?
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.
Does Jiffy Lube replace oil plug?
0:541:47How Jiffy Lube Performs a Signature Service Oil Change ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhile the technician under the hood is performing these checks the technician in the lower bankMoreWhile the technician under the hood is performing these checks the technician in the lower bank underneath your cart begins his work he'll remove the drain plug allowing the older.
How do you Retap an oil drain plug?
2:164:26How to Repair a Stripped Out Aluminum Oil Pan - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBack it out a little bit and what clean out some of the shavings. And then put it back in and startMoreBack it out a little bit and what clean out some of the shavings. And then put it back in and start it and do that a couple times until. Until it this goes all the way through the little oil pan.
Can you put 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.
Can I use silicone on oil drain plug?
Tom: Silicone is oil-resistant, but eventually it's going to break down and fail. And when it does, the drain plug is going to fall out. And if it happens to fall out while you're driving, it's good-bye, motor.
Should you replace oil drain plug?
A: If only the drain plug (screw) itself is damaged, replacements are readily available. If the threads of the oil pan are damaged, you need not replace the entire pan — which in some cases can be labor intensive. You don't tell us what kind of car you have, so we will suggest a universal-type oil drain plug.
Can you replace oil drain plug?
A: If only the drain plug (screw) itself is damaged, replacements are readily available. If the threads of the oil pan are damaged, you need not replace the entire pan — which in some cases can be labor intensive. You don't tell us what kind of car you have, so we will suggest a universal-type oil drain plug.
Can you Rethread an oil pan?
Lisle Oil Pan Plug Rethread Kit works on soft steel and aluminum oil pans with 1/2 in., 12 mm, and 14 mm threads. The tapping tool ensures the new thread is perpendicular to the gasket surface to prevent any leakages. Kit includes a piloted drill, spring-loaded tapping tool and 5 magnetic drain plugs.
How much is an oil drain?
Whether you choose to do it yourself or opt for a professional oil change, the service typically costs between $20 and $70. Keeping up to date on oil changes may extend the life of your car's engine and help your vehicle run more efficiently.
Why does my oil drain plug leak?
A worn out thread, misaligned threads, or a loose oil drain plug can be a common oil leak cause. It is easy to spot as there would be fresh oil around the plug, and on the side of it where it drips down. The Oil Filler CapOil doesn't just drip down.
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.
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.
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 does my engine need oil?
Your engine needs oil to run. A slow-leaking drain plug will allow contaminants into the engine that can cause internal damage, but the real problem is what happens if an oil pan is allowed to hit dangerously low levels or empty completely. Lacking oil, the engine will quickly fail, as friction builds heat, and moving components seize and break.
Can oil drain plugs be stripped?
A stripped oil drain plug can lead to major engine failure, so take a moment to learn about the best practices for avoiding it ...
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.
How Does an Oil Drain Plug Get Stripped?
The term “stripped” oil drain plug (or oil pan plug) is typically used to describe one of two conditions. These issues differ from one another in context, as well as possible means of repair.
What is oil drain plug repair?
Oil drain plug repair kits focus on removing any remaining damaged threads within an oil pan’s drain hole, before rethreading this drain hole to accept a slightly oversized plug.
How to reduce the chance of rounding off a drain plug?
The first of these precautions involves using a properly sized wrench or socket during every oil change. Doing so significantly reduces the chance of rounding off a drain plug’s hexagonal head. Information regarding drain plug size for a particular vehicle can often be found via the Internet, or by consulting a manufacturer-specific service manual.
How to remove stripped threads from drain plug?
Drain Plug With Stripped Threads. A drain plug with stripped threads can often be removed simply by rotating it in a counterclockwise fashion, with a wrench or socket. However, it might be necessary to provide a slight amount of outward force on the plug itself, in order to get any remaining threads to engage.
What is a stripped drain plug?
The second condition often described as a “stripped drain plug” actually refers to the rounding-off of a drain plug’s hexagonal head. This prevents a wrench or socket from being properly applied to a drain plug during removal. rounded off head. As a result, one is unable to drain the old oil from an engine’s crankcase.
Why is my drain plug rounded off?
The most common cause of a rounded-off drain plug is the use of an improperly sized wrench or socket during prior removal/installation. This often occurs when a standard socket is used in a metric application or vice versa.
What causes oil pan bolts to not torque?
The first of these conditions involves damage to the threads of an oil pan’s drain hole. This damage prevents a drain plug (or oil pan bolt) from being properly torqued.
When to apply anti seize on piggyback center bolt?
Anti-Seize should be applied to the Piggyback Center Bolt after every oil change before it is threaded back into the drain plug
How to keep a piggyback from rusting?
Apply Anti-Seize to the center part (the Piggyback) and thread it into place. The Anti-Seize will keep the metal from rusting or locking so tightly that it can't be removed for an oil change. When you go for an oil change, make sure they are familiar with the oil drain plug you have inserted.
Does the Dodge Intrepid have an oil pan drain plug?
An auto mechanic friend suggested a Self Threading Oil Pan Drain Plug. We discovered that the Dodge Intrepid does not have a standard oil pan plug size. Even knowing the year, make, and model does not clear that up.
Do you need to remove the piggyback center bolt for an oil change?
They need to know that only the Piggyback Center Bolt is removed for an oil change. If they attempt to remove the whole plug you will, with certainty, need a new oil pan! Anti-Seize should be applied to the Piggyback Center Bolt after every oil change before it is threaded back into the drain plug.
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 ...
Is it hard to move exhaust pipes?
In many cars, it is a very difficult job as you have to move exhaust pipes or even drop the subframe. Before you attempt to tackle this job it would be smart to get a repair manual for your vehicle and spend some time looking underneath your car so you know what you’re getting into.
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 oil drain plug insert?
An insert isn’t like a wound spool of wire like a Helicoil. It s a solid insert that threads into the oil pan and has internal threads for the new oil drain plug. They’re made by Timesert.com. Timersert makes all kinds of inserts for stripped spark plugs, oil drain plugs, and engine drain plugs.
How much does it cost to replace a stripped drain plug?
The typical cost for replacing an oil pan ranges from $500 to as much as $1,000. However, installing an insert runs about $200 to $300.
Why does my universal plug leak?
Some people suggest using a Helicoil insert. Those usually leak over time because the sealer breaks down and the coil wicks the oil out.
How to make a hole in a metal pan?
Step 1: Using a standard tap holder tool, use the Timesert drill bit from the kit to cut the existing hole larger. Fill the drill flutes with grease to capture the metal fragments. Step 2: Insert the counter-bore tool into the tap holder tool and cut a recess into the oil pan.
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 compression stopper work on a car?
There are those who will opt for a compression stopper, but this causes more problems by destroying the rubber seal. This can work if you have serious leaks, but it is only a temporary solution. When your car comes in for service , you should have the plug replaced.
What do I do if my oil drain plug is stripped?
As previously stated when you find yourself saying, “I have a stripped oil drain plug” that is frequently used to denote two separate problems . The procedures for resolving these two problems are also distinct. However, with time and a steady hand, either outcome may be controlled.
What to do with a Stripped Oil Pan Drain Hole?
An oil pan's drain hole might become stripped in some cases, making it impossible to torque your engine's drain plug properly. This might be concerning, causing many motorists to be concerned about what appears to be an unsolvable problem. Fortunately, using a high-quality oil drain plug repair kit, can typically solve such problems.
What is the purpose of an oil drain plug?
This component of the vehicle performs an underappreciated but critical function. As a result, the importance of the oil drain plug is rarely appreciated.
What to do with a Drain Plug With a Rounded Off Head?
The removal of a drain plug with a rounded head requires the use of a special socket called a bolt extractor, which has spiraling interior grooves. One of the better sets is made by Irwin Tools, and it is reasonably priced.
How do you fix a stripped oil pan thread?
Turning a drain stopper counterclockwise with a wrench or socket is a common way to remove one with stripped threads. However, applying a modest amount of outward push to the plug itself may be required to engage any residual threads.
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.
Stripped Oil Pan Drain Plug Threads
Does A Rubber Oil Pan Drain Plug Work?
The Self-Threading Metal Oil Pan Drain Plug
- An auto mechanic friend suggested a self-threading oil pan drain plug. We discovered that the Dodge Intrepid does not have a standard oil pan plug size. Even knowing the year, make, and model does not clear that up. So, we bought a few different sizes of self-tapping metal plugs. It took a little experimentation to find the right size. We finally ended up inserting an oversized (OS…
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 will keep the metal from rusting or locking so tightly that it can't be removed for an oil change.
- 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 will keep the metal from rusting or locking so tightly that it can't be removed for an oil change.
- When you go for an oil change, make sure they are familiar with the oil drain plug you have inserted. They need to know that only the piggyback center bolt is removedfor an oil change. If they atte...
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 …