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drs_magnetic_drain_plug <-- search key word
Here is the link to the super magnet drain plug which I will be using. It is marketed for VW TDI diesels. It is fully machined from stainless steel, to be not magnetic itself. It has the same threads as the Saabs. It has a 7/8" hex head, so you will need a larger socket and you probably will not be stripping the head. It comes with a fiber washer that will last a long time. The first time that is is applied, the fiber washer will take some compression, so it will feel unusual when you tighen it down.
With all of the reports of chains and sprockets breaking up, I feel that a drain plug of this sort will be very valuable to get advance warnings that things are producing chucks of steel. If there are no chucks or chips, then things are ok. If there is a dark magnetic mud deposit, that is normal. As the magnet picks up fine micron sized particles over time, the engine will be cleaned of such circulating bits that are small enough to go through the full flow oil filters. Less magnetic mud will be seen as time goes by, and the reduce small particle population means less wear, especially of bearing and pistons with can't stand up to iron and steel particles.
After seeing the cylinder scoreing from steel chips embedded into the piston skirts this week, I can see the value of having a magnet capture such bits than letting them splash up to the cylinder bores.
Warning... these are not cheap. (If you order one, you have a chance to pick up 4 gallons of Mobil Delvac One (5W40). This will make your engine smoother and quieter and I found that my mpgs are higher, not lower with this compared to Mobil One 10W30. The Delvac has a better additive package and will protect cams lobes and other marginally lubricated areas in the engine.. perhaps the chains too? I am waiting for someone to state that you can't use this desiel engine oil in a gasser.... those folks need to visit and read at Mobil's web site.)
IF you get one of these magnets. Don't play with it or allow it to fly at tools or such, as these magnets are not themselves very strong. They can be damaged by careless handling. All of the neo super magnets are quite weak mechanically. Their tough bright nickel plating provides an illusion of mechanical toughness.
posted by 208.24.179...
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