leaky oil drain plug

[Kevin W]

My first oil change on the XJ and I discover an oversize self taping drain plug. After filling the next morning a "pool" of oil underneath. My next attempt is a search for a new pan but until then I'm replacing the copper washer and putting form-a-gasket on both sides of the washer. Think I got it covered?
(I p.m.ed andreashweiss for the pan )
Thanks
KW

[Ken Talbot]

Tsunami was starting to drip a bit once in a while too, but I wasn't sure where it was coming from. Last time I changed the oil, I put a new washer on the plug and the leak has gone away. I've had decent luck in the past using a crush washer off an old sparkplug for this - they are the same size.

[trbig]

Just put several wraps of teflon tape on the threads.


Tod

[Kevin W]

Thanks for the replies. I never thought about the spark plug washer, and I considered teflon tape, but wasn't sure it could handle the heat. I'll give em a try.

[AlanB]

Hi Kevin,

Teflon Tape might help, but if your sump plug is oversize, the spark-plug washer won't; Spark plug and original Sump plug are the same size and thread (14x1.25mm)

AlanB

[skids]

Why not use a nylon washer? I use them and mine have never melted.

[Ken Talbot]

Nylon works too if you can find one. I looked all over for one a few weeks back and had no luck.

[skids]

Pep Boys had them in the "helper" section. They were hanging next to the aftermarket drain plugs. The nice thing about them is that they (14 mm ID?) are more "forgiving" with tightening the plug to prevent stripping the threads. They help prevent the plug from becoming a bear to remove. They are good for the rear drive filler plug as well, but you might need to cut a little off of the side. Through the years of working on my bikes, I am learning not to be overbearing with the wrenches!

Originally posted by Ken Talbot Nylon works too if you can find one. I looked all over for one a few weeks back and had no luck.