Damaged Oil Drain Plug

[FordDIY]

The last time I changed my oil, I noticed the drain plug was difficult to remove until is got to the last few threads.

This time, I decided to replace it.

The replacement was not cheap at Advance Auto Parts, $7.00 while other sizes were in the $2.00 range, but it was time and they generally give great service.

The size for the replacement is M14-1.5

Here is the old drain plug, note the worn out seal and the damaged lower threads.



Close up of the damaged threads:



Here is a comarison of the old and new - you can really see the difference in the seals, as well as the threads.




The new one threaded in as is should, no issues.

Cause: Overtightening. We had used a local quick lube for a few years, back when it was $20.00 for an oil change. When it jumped to $35.00 I started doing them myself. That is when I found the damaged drain plug.

Thank you

[phantom_smack]

I believe they are even more at the dealership but the o-ring is integral to the bolt head.
Alot of the drain plug issues now is that they are way softer than they used to be as to not damage the threads in the oil pan.

[12Ounce]

Good that you are on top of this before it becomes a big problem. It may be just the photo, but that drain bolt looks a bit stretched to me. It only takes a few foot-lbs of torque to compress the seal and gaurantee that the plug will never come loose. Don't know why there are so many bone-heads that have to prove their manhood on poor little drain plugs.

BTW, Northern Tool Supply sells a package of 8mm dia pellet-magnets for a few bucks. I always install a couple sitting right on the tip of the drain plug ... on all my vehicles ... helps trap a bit of metal over the miles. Check/wipe them at each oil drain.

[phantom_smack]

One of the parts guys was saying that they are an interference thread drain plug that the threads are not an exact match to help keep them from backing out......I dont know and he is a parts guy lol.
I have several customers that only I change the oil and after 5-6 oil changes they seem to end up with a tight spot where you have to wrench it through.