oldnavy wrote:
Quote:
Alljeep I'm sure I went well over 37 ft-lbs, but I bought an extra plug just in case. I know I didn't damage the oil pan yet so this info is good news for the rest of my oil changes.
The drain plug is steel and not as easy damaged as the cast aluminum oil pan. The bigest problem is cross threading because the steel plug will cut new threads across the old and not allow a proper seal. The idea of not having any oil on the threads is also not a good idea as the dislike metals of aluminum and steel will corrode togather, this can happen amazingly fast in a wet or saltly conditions. The copper washers should be replace ocassionally, maybe every 3rd or 4th oil change to prevent leaks.
True about the oil on the threads, but use clean oil out of the bottle, not that crap from inside the engine. Still need to clean out the threads on both the hole and plug to get rid of the grit and soot that comes out with the old oil, then lubricate at least the plug with fresh oil before putting it back in. also make sure that the copper washer is clean and lubricated with fresh oil. Completely agree with changing out that washer every so often.