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Joined: May 2017
Posts: 144 Likes: 1
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 144 Likes: 1 |
My oil pan drain plug drips. The threads in the pan are bad, as I can't tighten the drain plug. Is it possible , or smart, do drill and tap the pan for a larger bolt? I have in the past tried o/s self tapping drain plugs with some success, but I don't want to go that route.
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 5,906 Likes: 8
Former ChatMaster ChatMaster - 5,000
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Former ChatMaster ChatMaster - 5,000
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 5,906 Likes: 8 |
I did that many (25?) years ago with my first '31. I used a special oil pan "repair" bolt It worked good for me. Used it for 15+ more years.
The bolt is oversized, naturally. But more importantly, it was tapered, so it got a really good grab on the metal.
If you want to go to the effort to remove your pan (after draining it, etc, and adding a new gasket) then go ahead. There's a metal piece inside which you can easily tap to a larger size. But then you'll have to find a larger bolt that has a large "head".
One other thought, after a few 'minor' leaks I finally bought the reproduction copper washer that goes on the outside. That gives a really snug fit when you tighten the bolt. I recommend it.
Good luck.
Bill Barker
Previous VCCA CHAT Administrator
(VCCA Member: 9802)
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1 member likes this:
Clement |
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Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 7,472 Likes: 26
ChatMaster - 7,000
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ChatMaster - 7,000
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 7,472 Likes: 26 |
I would install a helicoil to be able to use the original plug.
Steve D
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99
ChatMaster - 4,000
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ChatMaster - 4,000
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,024 Likes: 99 |
Maybe I am missing something in this discussion.
I am wondering why using an oversized drain plug is not preferred over drilling and tapping oversized. It seems like in both cases the end result is a larger threaded hole in the pan.
A helicoil might not work due to the relative thin length of engagement in the pan. That extra metal piece for the plug is not very thick.
Rusty
VCCA #44680
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Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 119
Shade Tree Mechanic
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Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 119 |
I had a similar experience with my 1936 Standard. I ended up using a double oversize drain plug. It worked but is not perfect, but I have come to realize that a vehicle this old will have some minor drips. You know like our bodies as we age.
1936 Chevy Std
1954 3600 Truck
2008 Corvette Z06
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 2,323 Likes: 6
ChatMaster - 2,000
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ChatMaster - 2,000
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 2,323 Likes: 6 |
I have used the self tapping plug with good results. On one of my vehicles I use a metal washer that has a soft rubber insert and it works perfectly. Another solution is to use one of those rubber plugs that has a draw bolt in the middle. They work for sure and are reusable. I definitely would not pull the pan if I didn't have to.
My 1951 1 Ton is now on the road! My 38 Master 4 Door is also now on the road .
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 19,758 Likes: 64
ChatMaster - 15,000
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ChatMaster - 15,000
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 19,758 Likes: 64 |
No matter what option is used it is critical to make sure that the oil pan drain plug is aligned to the oil pan. If at even a small angle it can have a slow leak.
How Sweet the roar of a Chevy four!
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