need help with oil pan screw!!

[Eric.Claire]

I have all but completed my oil change but can't get that stupid screw to set right. Has anyone else had this problem and how can I get it back in. Its a 2003 530i. it doesnt seem like there is normal threads on the screw and the copper washer is strange.

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

what do you mean but the threads and washer does not look normal did you check the treads in the oil pan? hopfully there not stripped I know these things can be a PITA to get back in

[Eric.Claire]

it doesnt look striped it looks like it only may have a single thread on the screw and a couple on the inside of the pan. It gets hand tight but when any pressure is applied it loosens back up. I also am not sure which way the copper washer goes. It looks like it is different on both sides of the washer.

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

is sounds like the pan or the bolt is stripped.... what kind of mechanical skills do you have?

[Eric.Claire]

they are limited but I can't see any metal shavings where the bolt may be stripped.

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

most likey they would has been flushed out with the oil... when the bolt is run all they way down you can still turn it correct?

[Eric.Claire]

well that is the weird thing, I can get it hand tight but as soon as I but a socket to it it never gets tight. I was wondering if it had something to do with the washer. one side has a lip around the outside. My impression if it was stripped it would be stripped at the small end not the end with the bolt head. there is threading for a little over one complete rotation then nothing. It looks like a pretty unique boldt.

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

... sounds like your bol is stripped is there anyway you can get a picture? it should have alot more then 1 thread!

[rashid]

Question: if the oil level is coming down every one-two months or every 15000 mk, is that normal in BMW or not?

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

how much is it going down?