The Oil Pan Plug: What You Need To Know

The oil pan plug, also known as the oil drain plug, is a small but crucial component in vehicles. It is located at the bottom of the oil pan and serves as a seal to prevent engine oil from leaking out. When it's time for an oil change, the plug is removed to allow the old oil to drain out, and then it's tightened back in place after the fresh oil is added. There are different types of oil pan plugs available, including magnetic ones that attract and capture metal particles, helping to keep the engine oil clean.

Quick drain plugs for oil pans

One notable product in this category is the No-Spill™ quick oil drain plug. This plug is made from solid brass bar stock, which means it won't conduct heat like other metals, allowing for safe handling even with a hot engine. The No-Spill™ plug is easy to install and eliminates common issues associated with oil changes, such as messy spills, stripped oil pans, and overtightened plugs. It is compatible with gravity or suction systems and comes in three designs: Standard, Compact, and Speed Click™, catering to different vehicle types and space constraints.

Another option is the EZ Oil Drain Valve, which simplifies the oil change process. By installing this valve, you can drain your engine oil without tools and avoid creating a mess. The nickel-plated brass ball valve is operated by lifting a lever and turning it a quarter turn to open and close. The EZ Oil Drain Valve is rated for high pressure and engine vibration and provides a flawless seal when locked closed.

The Fumoto Engine Oil Drain Valve is another popular choice, invented in Japan and used by millions worldwide. This valve replaces the stock oil drain plug, making oil changes cleaner and more efficient. It is suitable for a range of vehicles, from cars and trucks to construction and agricultural equipment.

Lastly, the Femco Click Drain Oil Plug offers a fast and tool-less oil-changing experience. The system consists of an oil drain plug and a quick-connect coupler (Clicker). When an oil change is due, clicking the Femco Clicker onto the oil plug opens the internal valve, allowing oil to drain out. This process is ideal for companies that maintain a large volume of vehicles or equipment and can be used with gravity drain or evacuation units.

Magnetic oil drain plugs

An oil pan plug, also known as a drain plug, is used to drain the oil from the oil pan. One type of oil drain plug is the magnetic oil drain plug, which captures metal debris and particles from engine oil using a magnet, typically a neodymium magnet, which is one of the strongest magnets in a compact size.

The captured metal debris can be easily wiped away using a rag, making these plugs reusable. It is recommended to use a thread sealant or thread seal tape on the plug prior to installation to ensure a secure seal and reduce the possibility of leakage.

Oil drain plug thread sizes

The thread size of an oil drain plug depends on the vehicle in question. For example, a 2007 Suzuki GSF1250S Bandit motorcycle has an oil drain bolt diameter of 14mm, a thread pitch of 1.25, and a length of 13mm. In contrast, a Honda vehicle uses a 17mm wrench for its oil drain plug.

ECO-PLUG offers a magnetic, threadless oil drain plug for damaged and undamaged aluminum oil pans with a thread size of 12mm-16mm and a 3/4" short thread non-recessed drain hole.

Other oil drain plugs and their thread sizes include:

• Nissan, Toyota, GEO: Wrench size 14mm, Thread length 1/2"
• Nissan, Toyota (Dog Point): Wrench size 14mm, Thread 1/2" (OAL 11/16")
• Nissan, Chevrolet (Corvette 5.7): Wrench size 19mm, Thread length 1/2"
• Nissan, Renault, Volvo: Wrench size 19mm, Thread length 1/2"
• Honda, Chevy Luv, Peugeot, Subaru: Wrench size 17mm, Thread length 5/8"
• Chrysler, Renault, Toyota, Volvo (Diesel): Wrench size 19mm, Thread length 1/2"
• Chrysler, Renault, Toyota, Volvo (Diesel): Wrench size 19mm, Thread length 9/16"
• Audi, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Hyundai, Isuzu, Mazda, Mits, Saab, Suzuki (Dog Point): Wrench size 16mm, Thread 9/16" (OAL 7/8")
• Audi/VW, Ford "Power Stroke": Wrench size 16mm, Thread 9/16" (OAL 7/8")
• Ford (OEM): Wrench size 16mm, Flanged head with rubber o-ring
• AMC, Chrysler, Ford, GM: Wrench size 16mm, Flanged head with rubber o-ring
• Chrysler (OEM): Wrench size 17mm, Flanged head with rubber o-ring
• VW/Audi (OEM): Plated with Integral SEMS Washer, Wrench size 17mm
• GM (OEM): Flanged head with rubber o-ring, Wrench size 17mm
• GM (OEM) w/ NEO Super Magnet: Wrench size 17mm, Flanged head with rubber o-ring
• GM Cruze, Volt, Sonic (OEM): Wrench size 17mm, Flanged head with rubber o-ring
• BMW, Mercedes: Special aluminum washer, Thread length 7/16"
• Volvo: Uses 72-54 Copper gasket
• Saturn (OEM): Flanged head with rubber o-ring under head, Wrench size 17mm
• Jeep (OEM): Attached rubber-faced washer, Wrench size 17mm
• Ford (OEM): Attached rubber-faced washer, Wrench size 17mm
• Chrysler/Mitsubishi (OEM): Attached rubber-faced washer, Wrench size 17mm

Oil drain plug fitting types

Oil drain plugs are not universal, but the industry does use a few standard sizes. These include 1/4 inch (0.6 centimetres), 3/8 inch (0.9 centimetres), and 1/2 inch (1.3 centimetres). The size of the wrench you will need depends on the size of the oil drain plug itself, which is usually a long bolt head. The exact size of the wrench you need will depend on the make and model of the vehicle.

There are a few types of oil drain plug fittings available. Firstly, the Standard series, which is for gravity drain. This is the basic model from which all other plugs are built. Another type is the Compact oil drain plug, which is the smallest plug available and is designed to drain oil from vehicles where space is restricted. For those looking to drain oil quickly, Click Drain plugs are recommended. These can be used with a pump or evacuation unit and can drain most trucks in 10-30 seconds. Finally, for those looking to drain large quantities of oil quickly, there is the XL oil drain plug.

Oil drain plug gasket or seal

An oil drain plug gasket, sometimes called a washer, is a small but essential component in the lubrication system of an engine. It is a seal that prevents oil from leaking out of the oil pan, which is the container at the bottom of the engine that holds the engine oil. When the oil drain plug is removed to drain the oil from the engine, the gasket forms a tight seal when the plug is reinstalled, ensuring that oil does not escape.

There are various types of materials used for oil drain plug gaskets, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some common materials include:

• Nylon: Nylon gaskets are known for their durability and can be reused for a long time. However, some people avoid using nylon due to concerns about melting.
• Metal: Metal gaskets, such as aluminium, copper, and steel, are widely used. They are strong and effective, but some people believe they may damage the oil pan or plug over time due to their hardness.
• Rubber: Rubber gaskets, sometimes used in combination with a metal outer ring, provide a soft and flexible seal. They are less likely to cause damage to the oil pan or plug during installation, but may degrade over time with exposure to oil and heat.
• Fluoroelastomer (FKM): This material is known for its excellent resistance to chemicals and high temperatures.
• Vulcanized Fibre: This material is strong and durable, making it suitable for high-pressure applications.

When choosing an oil drain plug gasket, it is important to consider the compatibility with your vehicle's make and model, as well as the quality and durability of the gasket. Reusable gaskets, such as those made of nylon or metal, can be a cost-effective option, but it is crucial to inspect them for any signs of damage before reuse. It is always recommended to follow the vehicle manufacturer's guidelines for oil change intervals and gasket replacement to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your engine.

Frequently asked questions