Date: Sat, 28 Oct 2000 13:48:31 -0700 From: Kimo Saaby <kimo_saabynopsameja.com> Subject: Re: how to remove dog eared oil drain plug?
Agreed!!!! - B John Davies wrote: > On Sat, 28 Oct 2000 18:05:21 +0100, "redonald" > <redonaldnopsamthemail.net> wrote: > > >I've lost the edges to the hex oil drain plug bolt and now I can't get the > >sprocket to hold - so its stuck solid. I really need to change the oil, but > >don't want to have to take the car to the garage - any ideas? > > > >richard 88 900 8i auto 145kmiles > > > Don't start drilling yet! > > First try an open-end wrench. If that slips, try a big adjustable > (crescent) wrench - that may grip a little tighter. If the sides are > completely gone..... > > Then you can try the vise grips. They will usually do the job if the > head isn't completely round. Some careful filing on the sides of the > plug can provide a little better grip. > > After this you can try hack-sawing a slot in the head to accept a BIG > flat tipped screwdriver. > > Eventually you have to face the fact that a drill is in order. Time > for a big easy-out. The reason you leave this to last, is that it is > usually a last resort, and contrary to the name, is not always easy. > Use a big easy-out because the last thing you want to happen is have a > small one snap off in the plug before you get the thing loose. > > Good luck. > > John Davies > Monroe WA USA