Oil Drain Plugs-Opinions

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Over the next few days I will be changing the oil in the Wife's Tribute. Currently it has a rubber molded drain plug 12mm-1.75. I've always been anal about changing gaskets on drain plugs. Just wandering what you all think. Should I go back with a molded rubber plug or by a new plug with copper gaskets and just change the gaskets. Or any other type gaskets-rubber, fiber, nylon, etc. What do you all think? I just replaced a stripped out drain plug gasket on my parents older Cadillac with a singleoversize plug and a copper gasket. NO LEAKS! I'm honestly considering a Dorman product plug with copper gasket.
 
I've never seen a rubber drain plug...didn't know they existed...interesting.

BTW, What is a "Tribute" and how do you "strip out" a drain plug gasket?
 
Originally Posted By: SWSportsman
I've never seen a rubber drain plug...didn't know they existed...interesting.

BTW, What is a "Tribute" and how do you "strip out" a drain plug gasket?


Mazda Tribute = rebadged Ford Escape
 
GM has used those captured rubber seals on the drain plug for years. I've seen them over 12 years old and oil changed every 3K miles and they still worked fine. Plus the gasket can't fall off. On the copper and aluminum ones common on Japanese cars, I re-use them too.
 
Auto parts stores carry replacement drain plugs .
They are different sizes, so it's up to you to get the right one.
They have replacement gaskets made of a nylon type material - sold as 2-3 in a blister pack . They have circular ribs for extra seal insurance.
Normally, pan threads are hard. It is the plugs that strip.
Not always, but usually.
 
I have an '01 Lumina with 207,000 miles. Has that original drain plug with the original captive rubber seal. No leaks.

The key is to avoid overtightening it. If you can do that and keep the lube monkeys away from it, it'll be trouble-free.
 
Originally Posted By: lenjack
+1 for the Fumoto drain plug.

+2

I don't have one, because a topside oil extractor works extremely well with my TDI engine. But if I had an engine with a less-convenient oil filter location, then I'd probably go with a Fumoto valve.
 
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