I went to the local Auto Lube this afternoon for an oil change on my 94 530i.
The mechanic there said that the oil plug was stripped and they would not proceed to take it out. He said he could tell by how "tight" it was already in the pan. He was afraid to take it out fearing they would be liable.
So, what should I do ?
Play dumb and take it to another shop and see if they'll be willing to take it out or what ??o
Hello Funk 49:
You have to proceed with plans A, B, and C.
A) Decide what will you do if there is not enough boss material to go to a larger plug and the one in the car has stripped the threads. Are you ready for another oil pan? Yes. Then do it. - No. Go to plan B (though it eventually would have to be done).
B) Have the oil and filter changed where they pump it from the top (common and excellent method). Wait on the plug until the next change (insure there is no leak).
C) Have the plug drilled a hole 6 mm in diameter (Be sure the oil is caught in a pan, watch out for the mess). When all oil came out, with a stud remover
carefully remove the plug. Now use a tap to check and reshape the female thread in the pan. Install a new plug and sealing washer to manufacturer's spec for torque (don't go where you did it last so the situation will not be repeated. neither go to the mechanic who refused to take the plug out). Proceed with oil filter change and oil replacement.
NOTE: If you are not tight for a few coins, have the oil pan loosened on the lowest end more than the other and drain the oil (carefull or will be really messy). Then remove the pan and do the plug removal on the bench.
For reinstalling the pan you will need a new oil pan seal. This approach gives you the advantage to remove all sludge and filings from the pan, sump filter, magnets and pump area (it'd be a very good thing), and to check the pan for leaks before you reinstall it.
Good luck, Bim
