Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Busted Oil drain plug!!!!

[JCyrbok]

Changing Oil today after 15K ( i have a by pass) and the plug (stock plug) was VERY TIGHT. When I last changed I know that I torqued it to only 30ft/lbs instead of the 44ft/lbs that is the spec.



I know that they tighten up over time but when I was backing the plug out the flange snapped off! Luckily the plug itself was still intact and the 3/8 drive was still good so I was able to get the plug out.



I'm getting ready to go to the dealer for a new plug ( which is BS in my opinion).



What can be done so this does not happen in the future? I have heard horror stories about these plugs in the past and dont want to be biten anymore than I am right now!



I have tried an aftermarket plug from Geno's but that turned out to be a piece of crap and leaked on me, so for at least on this I would like to stay stock.



Thanks

J-

 

[RustyJC]

I tighten my drain plug "just snug plus a light tug" with a short-handled 3/8 ratchet. I've never had it come loose, nor have I ever had one crack the flange. This is one of the few places that I trust my "feel" more than a torque spec. YMMV.



Rusty

 

[rashwor]

Ditto on Rusty...

the torque spec is out of spec for what you are torquing. Just snug it up like the oil filter. If snug, they don't come loose and they don't leak.

 

[Bertram65]

Try a Fram Sure drain plug. I have been using them for close to two years in 2 vehicles including my truck. No problems and no leaks, Wal Mart $12. 99, check out one of the other drain plug horror stories about a Geno's one that snapped. https://www.turbodieselregistry.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=107708