There are four common oil drain plug sizes: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. The torque specification may vary depending on the cars make and model, but its usually between 20 and 25 foot-pounds of torque. You should see the underside of the oil sump, which is either an aluminum or steel pan. In that case, you can try using an impact gun or drill. When the bolt extractor has fit snugly around the plug head, attach the head of a suitable ratchet socket to the extractor. Here is how to remove a stripped oil drain plug and repair the threads easily. 19-20 Add TO CART OTC Drain Plug Pro Oil Drain Plug Tool Part # 5911 SKU # 112476 $1999 Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up SELECT STORE Home Delivery Not Available Use a small drill bit and make sure not to drill too deeply you just want to create a new pilot hole for the oil drain plug. Easy to use weather radar at your fingertips! Once the oil drain plug is removed, take a look at the threads on both the drain plug and the oil pan. With cautious usage. Still, got questions about the oil drain plug? You can find the exact size in your car's service manual." Since drain plug removal is essential to the completion of any oil change, such issues can bring even the best of efforts to a halt. Sturdy Structure: This drop-in ice bin is brushed 304 stainless steel material for long-lasting durability. If there are more than three or four threads showing, then the plug is too loose and needs to be tightened. Once youve found it, take a look at the amount of threads that are visible. I have noticed oil trickling out of my primary drain plug. Sorry, you're using a web browser that is no longer supported. Due to factors beyond the control of jimthecarguy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Get the monthly weather forecast for Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, including daily high/low, historical averages, to help you plan ahead. "@type": "Answer", This could be caused by several things, such as a low oil level, a clogged oil filter, or a problem with the oil pump. One last thing, remember to have a pan ready. On occasion, however, an oil change can present unforeseen difficulties. I tried using the socket but the thin head caused the edges to bend. 7 Causes Of High Oil Pressure and How to Fix It, 4 Symptoms Of Low Oil Pressure and Common Causes, What Color Should Your Engine Oil Be? You can use a set of vice grip pliers to grab onto the rounded-off drain plug. How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Alternator. The job isnt complete until no more oil is seeping through. A new plug is ~$3. When attempting to remove the final drive oil drain plug in my '18 RT, it wouldn't budge and the head of the plug stripped. In the case of a stripped thread, try using a breaker bar (the longer the better) to exert more force onto it. Cross-threading is when you dont insert the bolt correctly and it didnt sit onto the spacing of threads on the pan as it should. One thing that you may not know about the oil drain plug is that it has a torque specification. When done correctly, this procedure allows a new drain plug to be installed in the same manner as the vehicles OE plug. Aside from the tools required to remove and reinsert the drain plug, you'll need an oil pan to collect old oil. His videos are clear, concise, and helpful. The reduced temperature will make the plug reduce in size so it can come off easily. Lubricate the Plug Car engine parts are now built with aluminum including drain plugs. But if you don't want to spend the money, you can tilt the lawnmower over. I'd be screwed if I hadn't ordered the new one. Dont be afraid to use a bit of force to remove them. This handy tool is made of durable steel and features a comfortable grip for easy use. Oilauditor.com is controlled by ASK the Voughs Oil Solutions LLC. Here are some answers you might find helpful: Stripped drain plug can refer to a stripped thread or stripped bolt head (rounded-off bolt head). Sometimes referred to as a washer. If there are no leaks at first, start the engine. I'm a dumb@ss and I over tightened my plastic drain plug in my f30. Viking is usually pretty good. order On the other hand, a stripped thread can occur because of cross-threading and/or overtightening. This provides a renewed surface, which can be tapped to accept a new drain plug. If the bolt head is stripped, use a round-jaw vice grip plier to grip the bolt and loosen it. Sometimes, rust and particle buildup could be the reason your oil drain plug has refused to budge. If you dont do this step, you risk having metal pieces flowing through the oil and motor, thereby leading to permanent damage. Provided that the drain plug isnt stripped, using a breaker bar will make the job easier. You can buy replacement threads at most auto parts stores. Warm the oil slightly by running the engine. The vice grips could cause more issues by stripping the head further. Don't get me wrong, For lug nuts, head bolts and other high torque, high stress fittings I am a dedicated torque wrench user. You will be able to use this kit in the future for other projects, from the automotive gearbox to your household sump pump. Having a stripped oil drain plug stand in the way of your car's overdue oil change can be frustrating. You can find the exact size in your cars service manual. If youre not entirely sure about your skills, best leave it to the professionals. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand and let all the oil drain into the pan. To remove a stripped oil drain plug, use your vice grip pliers to get around the oil drain plug. { "acceptedAnswer": { },{ If the extractor doesn't fit completely which is possible because of the stripping tap it lightly with a hammer. Procure a socket that matches the size of the oil drain plug and then try to remove the stuck oil drain plug. Fit the head of the extractor through the head of the plug. Regular oil changes are essential to extending the life of any engine. Overfilling it can cause problems. Drain plug head damage can also be caused by using the wrong size socket or wrench on it. Many oil drain plug repair kits feature a reaming bit, which removes the remains of any pre-existing threads. The word stripped can define two different conditions with the oil drain plug and hole. Josh has worked as a full-time mechanic for over 12 years, with 6 ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications under his belt. Another way to get off a stuck oil drain plug is to use a ratchet socket with a long handle. Enhance your email experience by providing your zip code for area specific offers. Be careful not to damage the oil drain plug teeth. and I don't have any service records yet, but still working on getting them. Doing so greatly reduces the chance of damaging the threads of your engines drain plug or oil pan. I'll be attempting to change the final drive oil next, and saw in some instructional videos that the drain plugs can be tricky to remove without stripping the 8mm allen inserts in the plugs. Stripped Oil Drain Plug (Fixed For $1.50!!!) Here is a quick and easy way to remove a stripped oil drain plug without replacing the oil pan.Here are some of the tools that jimthecarguy useshttps://www.amazon.com/shop/jimthecarguyIrwin bolt extractor . But then, each change presents a fresh opportunity for your drain plug to get damaged especially when you or your mechanic isn't an expert. Removing a drain plug in this state typically requires the use of a specialty socket called a bolt extractor, which features spiraled internal grooves. Stripping makes it hard to safely unscrew a drain plug whenever you need to change your car's engine oil. "text": "There are four common oil drain plug sizes: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. Heres how to do it: The video above shows the process of how to rethread a stripped aluminum oil pan. Oil drain plug size may differ from one car to another, and there are four common sizes: There are other sizes as well but those four are the most common. "@type": "Question", "text": "Most cars will have one of these three oil drain plug sizes: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. It may take a few extra taps to get it loose. How to Change the Oil in Your Car (5 Easy Steps), How to Clean a Catalytic Converter Without Removing It, 4 Signs Of A Bad ABS Wheel Speed Sensor and Replacement Cost, 4 Symptoms Of A Leaking Oil Pan Gasket And Replacement Cost. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Yes, I am aware that the fill plug takes a hex and the drain plug . "@type": "Question", The last mechanic who worked on your oil pan or drain plug might have applied more force than necessary while tightening your drain plug. This will cost between $600 and $750 for most cars, including labor. If a square head plug is to be removed, pound on the head of the plug using a one pound hammer. In the case of a stripped thread, try using a breaker bar (the longer the better) to exert more force onto it. The excessive force most mechanics apply to drain plugs during tightening is unnecessary. 1) First get the car up on some jackstands, remove obvious parts, gather your tools, etc. },{ FREE SHIPPING on most orders of $35+ & FREE PICKUP IN STORE. The term stripped oil drain plug (or oil pan plug) is typically used to describe one of two conditions. If you have a stripped bolt head, use round-jaw vice-grip pliers to grip the bolt head. Turn the pliers counterclockwise and use a hammer if you need more force. Usually when the barrel of a hex head bolt starts to strip from being overtightened, only those sides/faces of the bolt for tightening are deformed - the opposite sides/faces of the bolt used for removal are hopefully undamaged and the bolt will come right out. albetreddit 2 yr. ago Fumoto drain valves When you are done tapping, flush the system with - to 1-quart of motor oil. Overtightened plugs can also get stripped when you try to remove them with the wrong tools. The 2 most compelling are, 1- It's not necessary. I let the plugs sit for a couple of hours before I began. How Much Oil Does My Car Need: What Oil Type Is Right For You? And it is a double-walled design for better insulation work. So, if you dont get it right the first time, youre unlikely to be able to rethread it. The first thing youll need to do is loosen the oil drain plug with a wrench. If the bolt head is stripped, use a round-jaw vice grip plier to grip the bolt and loosen it. I'm in the process of servicing my 2020 Kx033-4 (a used machine with 1600 hrs.) But this article explains how to get out rounded off oil drain plug for that oil change your car has been waiting for. The first of these conditions involves damage to the threads of an oil pans drain hole. Chisel out the sides of the plug to get edges that can be gripped by the extractor or a wrench box head. This drainage is plugged with a simple bolt and a gasket to seal the oil and prevents it from escaping. Use a hammer to tap on the oil drain plug to loosen it. I even asked him about welding a nut onto the plug, but the problem is is the oil drain plug is aluminum. Perhaps the most significant of these difficulties are those that arise from a stripped (or rounded) drain plug. Most hand tool sets will have all of these sizes included. If its the former, then its a matter of exerting as much force as possible. If you dont see anything, take the vehicle around the block. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Oil drain plug repair kits focus on removing any remaining damaged threads within an oil pans drain hole, before rethreading this drain hole to accept a slightly oversized plug. }. However, the basic steps are similar: resurface the thread, and rethread it. Rain? If this is the case, youll need to repair it before you can install the new drain plug. Otherwise, you cant plug the car and its going to have to sit until the new part arrives. The kit will also include tools of varying sizes. The longer the breaker bar, the more torque (force) you will exert on it and the better chance you have at loosening the plug. "text": "The most common oil drain plug sizes are 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. Ice? Read on to learn more about how to remove a stripped drain plug, should you find yourself faced with such issues in the future. 4. First off, it might be difficult to remove, so avoid using vice grips, as those may strip the head. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Address: 9169 W State St #2867, Garden City, ID 83714Phone: 208-549-9411. If youre a car owner, chances are youve had to change your oil at some point. Carefully tap it with a hammer if the bolt is difficult to remove. Needless to say, oil leaks can lead to serious engine problems if ignored. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Meanwhile, if the bolt is spinning in place and wont come out, heres what you can do: Meanwhile, if you have a stripped bolt head or rounded-off head as its more commonly referred to, youll need a flathead screwdriver and a round-jaw vice grip plier: The video above shows how to use both pliers and a bolt extractor socket to remove the bolt. The reduced temperature will make the plug reduce in size so it can come off easily. I've had them on my vehicles for years and will always upgrade to these. This eliminates the need to purchase and install a replacement oil pan, thereby saving a substantial amount of time and money. "@type": "Question", An oil, Read More Where is the Oil Sending UnitContinue, Assuming you would like tips on resetting the oil life monitor on your 2016 Honda Civic: 1. Reusing the gasket can cause leaks. And most cars usually have a six-point (hexagon) bolt head. In the past I have used a box wrench to change the oil. Its important that you inspect your repair for any sign of leaks. And if youre lucky, thats all youve had to do. A ratchet with a socket will not fit in between the space. Once thats done, it will hold a new plug without any issues, unless you strip it again. Then place the cardboard 3-4 feet square under the oil pan plug. Turn the Oil Plug Bolt Counterclockwise to Loosen Turn the bolt counterclockwise to loosen it and make sure you're turning the wrench clockwise so you don't accidently overtighten and strip the drain plug. Anyway, this segues us nicely to our next section: Stripped oil drain plug can refer to either the threads or the bolt head that have been damaged and stripped. Nov 17, 2013. 1 - 16 of 16 results for Oil Drain Plug Wrench/Socket Compare Refine. First, try using a pair of pliers. store If your oil drain plug is stripped, youll need to remove it before you can change the oil in your car. You can also rotate the socket by using a car jack to exert more force. Grip the head with the pliers, and rotate it counter-clockwise, while simultaneously pulling outward on the drain plugs. As soon as you notice the extractor starts to pull away from the plug, remove the ratchet and hammer the extractor back into the plug. I also outline how to repair the oil pan hole. GearWrench 13mm To 19mm Ratchet Set 3/8 Inch Drive, GearWrench 17mm Magnetic Drain Plug Socket 3/8 Inch Drive 6 Point, GearWrench 14mm Magnetic Drain Plug Socket 3/8 Inch Drive 6 Point, GearWrench 15mm Magnetic Drain Plug Socket 3/8 Inch Drive 6 Point, GearWrench 16mm Magnetic Drain Plug Socket 3/8 Inch Drive 6 Point, GearWrench 19mm Magnetic Drain Plug Socket 3/8 Inch Drive 6 Point. Spray some lubricating rust removers around your oil drain plug, allow it to sit for some minute, and then gently unscrew it. After bolting everything together, the mechanic will then refill the engine oil and check for leaks. All rights reserved. And if all else fails, using a bolt extractor socket will likely solve your problem." Ultimately, this issue must be corrected before an oil change can be completed. Irrespective of your engine model, the steps in this guide will help also you remove stuck oil drain plugs. Your email address will not be published. Afterward, jack the car to a comfortable height and then unscrew the oil drain plug. Then, simply unscrew the tool and remove it from the hole. ESP BAS Light On? Then on to removing the oil pan. Were going to discuss everything about it in this post, as well as some DIY tips for an engine oil change to make your life easier: As the name suggests, the oil drain plug is a bolt that plugs your engine oil and prevents it from escaping. And finally, do not overtighten your oil drain plug. Shop products from small business brands sold in Amazons store. Turn the pliers counterclockwise and use a hammer if you need more force. If damage to the threads of the drain plug occurs, it is deemed to have been stripped. You will be looking at a much more expensive repair if you harm the oil pan. "name": "What Size Wrench For The Oil Drain Plug", If your oil pan and drain plug still appear dry following the conclusion of a short test drive, there will be little reason to anticipate further issues of any type. If the head of the stripped drain plug is flush against the body of your engines oil pan, channel-lock pliers can be used to rotate the plug counterclockwise, while pulling outward. When you take the stripped plug out, you will want to put the new one right in its place. If youre like most people, you probably dont think much about your cars oil plug. And then rotate it in the opposite direction to pull it out. I was being absent minded and realize it when I went too tight on it and felt a tiny slip in the allen bit in the hole. Removing Drain Plug With Stripped Threads, Removing Drain Plug With Stripped Bolt Head. Verify the integrity of your repair, by checking for leaks after refilling your engines crankcase to capacity with fresh oil. Be sure to use the right gasket for your cars make and model, as they can vary in size. Failure to fix this problem could lead to engine damage as the oil level continues to drop. I did add about a quart of oil with the drain plug still out to push any shavings out that might have collected in the crankcase, but didn't really see any come out . "name": "What Size Is The Oil Drain Plug", However, if there are no threads visible or only one or two showing, then the plug is too tight and needs to be loosened. But with the Stripped Oil Drain Plug Removal Tool from AutoZone, you can quickly and easily remove those pesky stripped plugs without damaging your engine. Its usually located near the bottom of the engine, on the side nearest the ground. Their products are formulated to meet the demands of todays high-performance engines and are backed by a team of engineers who are passionate about Powersports. Its not particularly difficult, and it doesnt require any special tools. First, place the oil pan under the drain plug and make sure it's positioned to catch all the oil that will draining out. You need to start back over and figure out what went wrong. Overtightening will only make it difficult to unscrew the plug the next time the oil needs to be changed. This will require a special tool, but well get into that later. The screwdriver can easily damage your oil pan, which cannot be repaired. In this guide, I take a closer look at the necessary instructions to remove a stripped oil drain plug. This inspection should be repeated once more, after driving your vehicle for a short distance. These new threads will be used to hold onto the drain plug. Just make sure to check with your service manual so you get the right plug size. How to remove a stripped or rounded oil drain plug Jimthecarguy 177K subscribers Subscribe 3.9K Share 788K views 8 years ago Toyota Here are some of the tools that jimthecarguy uses. A specially sized tap will then be carefully threaded into the oil pans drain hole. Getting your car's oil changed seems to be a relatively easy thing to do. Copyright 2008-2023 OReilly "@type": "Answer", This gasket helps to prevent oil leaks. See Also: Lug Nuts Wont Come Off? Required fields are marked *. Once it becomes loose enough, you should be able to unscrew it. How To Reset Oil Life: Engine Oil Change Light Indicator Reset. "@type": "FAQPage", loyalty program Usually, until it goes fully in or passes through the full depth of the hole. This pan sits below your engine, and its usually immediately accessible from underneath your car. Its easy to use, too just insert the tool into the stripped plug hole and turn until the plug pops out. },{ Exerting more force than necessary can also damage the threads just like cross-threading. I wanted to examine the drain plug as is, so I drained the oil from the oil level sensor, which was pretty messy. 2. Read more here. My Goldwing used a thick head bolt. it might happen that loosening the plug while prying. If you need to replace your plug, we recommend checking the service manual so you can find the correct size and part. Attach the ratchet again, and continue to rotate it until the plug comes off. Jimthecarguy 177K subscribers Subscribe 18K views 1 year ago Oil change and filter Here is a quick and easy way to remove a stripped oil drain plug. Otherwise, the new threads will be at an angle and they wont fit properly. against it will help the plugs threads "catch" the threads. This tool is designed to fit most domestic and import vehicles, so its perfect for anyone who works on their own car. Location: Los Angeles. Drop-in Design: Specification: Product Dimension: 21.2 x 16. . They should tell you that in your reservation. This method will damage the threads, so you will need a new oil pan once you're finished. The bolt will simply rotate in its place, or wont rotate at all when you try to unscrew it. } All Rights Reserved. If the head is mutilated, a vise grip pliers may also be used. If you have a stripped oil drain plug thread, use a socket wrench and rotate it by using a car jack underneath it. The removal of a drain plug with a rounded head, calls for a different strategy altogether. Also, it appears that a chance to use torx screwdriver in the cabin works such as dashboard. With the right tools, it isnt difficult to get the oil drain plug out and repair the oil pan hole. When you are finished, inspect the sealing washer to ensure it is evenly placed around the holes perimeter for a good fit. However, remember to make the tap light and in a proper way that will loosen it. Using this tool helps you to cut new threads in the hole. But if you have a stripped thread, then the thread on the oil drain hole may be damaged as well. When your oil levels become too low, your engine can knock and you'll be spending a fortune to get it fixed. Take your car to a mechanic and let them handle it. Irwin Tools makes one of the better sets and it doesnt cost a fortune. A wet cloth. Mazda revised the oil drain plug and its now a proper 17mm hex head bolt style. Wedge a flathead screwdriver between the plug and the drain hole to pry it out. Remove car's oil drain plug. If you must use a wrench, then combine its box end with a bolt extractor. And there's no guarantee that it'll spill out of the old oil. You want all of the threads to appear even, and there shouldnt be an excessive amount of metal shavings left behind. I still don't trust the hex hole won't get buggered sometime. This damage can make the plug ineffective and difficult to remove. The animation also shows how the oil travels from the sump and circulates through the engine. RELATED: How to Change the Oil in Your Car (5 Easy Steps). 2. Get a new 14mm plug and tap. Afterward, the mechanic will need to install the oil pan gasket first, before fitting the new oil pan in place. As mentioned, the threads of the drain hole may be damaged and stripped as well. with a new drain plug ready to go, use your . The process entails draining the engine oil, removing the oil pan, then cleaning the contact surfaces. If your oil drain plug becomes stripped, it can be a real pain to remove. In such cases, a proper repair will be necessary to prevent extensive oil loss and eventual engine damage. It can be done by letting it sit at a standstill for a while or by taking it on the road briefly. The most common cause of a rounded-off drain plug is the use of an improperly sized wrench or socket during prior removal/installation. https://amzn.to/2AQ5pGiDue to factors beyond the control of jimthecarguy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information,. If theyre damaged, youll need to replace them before putting everything back together. To replace the oil pan you're looking for MOPAR 5184546AC ($75), assuming you have a 2012+. A drain plug with stripped threads can often be removed simply by rotating it in a counterclockwise fashion, with a wrench or socket. Read the installation instructions in the owner's manual to identify the disposal parts and wiring colors. Why Is My Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Light On? These tools have been tried and tested by our team, they are ideal for fixing your car at home. The threads are already damaged anyway, so it doesnt matter if were being a bit rough on it. It also comes with a detachable hex bit for added convenience. If there are leaks, dont drive the car. "@type": "Question", To ensure there arent metal shavings, its a good practice to flush the system before adding the fresh oil. https://amzn.to/2AQ5pGiIn this video I will show you how to remove a rounded or stripped out oil drain plug without removing or replacing the oil pan.Very easy with the correct tool.Due to factors beyond the control of jimthecarguy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information,. You want to check any work that you perform on your vehicle, and this job is no different. 65109 Oil Drain Plug Ready To Paint If Needed. Secondly, the drain holes thread may be stripped as well. This often occurs when a standard socket is used in a metric application or vice versa. If the head is damaged, then its likely whoever tightened the bolt the last time was a little inconsiderate with the bolt. Use the Right Tools Use the right tools like a socket or wrench to remove the drain plug. This tool is designed to remove the oil drain plug without causing damage to the engine. Carefully tap it with a hammer if the bolt is difficult to remove." To do that, simply unscrew the old threads from the drain plug and screw in new ones. You may be able to loosen the plug slightly. If no leaks become evident, start your engine, and once again check for leaks. I recommend using the round-jaw variety. 12-61-1-744-292 Oil level sensor gasket ring. "name": "What Size Socket For Oil Drain Plug", Learn more about our "text": "The oil drain plug is usually on the side of the oil pan.