What is an oversized oil drain plug?

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION. The Needa Parts 652176 is a M14-1.50 oversized oil drain plug that will help cut a new thread into your oil pan. The cutting edge actually increases the size of the threads cut into the pan, for a more secure hold.

What causes a stripped oil drain plug?

It’s stripped because someone either cross-threaded it or put it on too tight. As for being old!!.. If the oil change is done correctly then the oil pan and bold threads should last as long as the rest of the engine. That means a lot of oil changes…the pan and bolt are fine.

Do oil drain plugs wear out?

The drain plug is cheap, but if you aren’t cross-threading it when you install it or overtorqueing it, it should NEVER fail. And if you cross-thread or over-torque the new one, you are just as likely (maybe MORE likely) to strip out the pan.

Is an oversized drain plug a permanent fix?

To retap a hole properly, you really need to drill out the old threads and use a tap that cuts deep enough into the metal to make real threads. An oversize drain plug simply doesn’t cut deep enough threads. It’s a temporary fix.

Are all oil drain plugs the same size?

There is no universal drain plug size, but there are only a couple different sizes in common use. Auto shops do not need to replace the plug, it is almost always reuseable. The disposable part is just a sealing washer or gasket. Most shops probably reuse that instead of replace it.

Do oversized oil drain plugs work?

If properly installed, an oversize oil plug is a viable ‘repair’ and much easier than pulling an engine just to replace an oil pan with a new one. If the plug seals, it will last for many years. Sometimes these will weep or drip if not done correctly, so watch for that issue.

Can you use a longer oil drain plug?

There is a prevailing attitude that as long as an oil drain plug has the same thread pitch you can use it in any vehicle that uses that size plug. Nothing could be further from the truth. All drain pans are not designed the same which is why different drain plugs are required for different vehicles.

How much does it cost to replace an 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.

Does oil drain plug need torque?

Most vehicles are equipped with a basic oil pan, and the basic oil drain bolt will require a little bit more torque. Torque the oil drain plug to 25 to 30 foot-pounds.