Date:         Sat, 19 Jul 1997 13:51:49 -0800
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Francis <tbf@PACIFIER.COM>
Subject:      Re: Oil plug stripped, fix needed

I found the same problem of a stripped out drain plug in my 86 when I
bought it. I tapped it out to the thread size of the pressure relief
valve of a type one engine. I used the plug from a type one because it
is machined to be used with a metal sealing washer that will fit nicely
and seal on the shoulder that is left. You will have to use a large
screwdriver to change the oil though.
Peg Piwonka wrote:
>
> I didn't do it!!!
>
>         Imagin my surprise when I went under my "new" 84 Westfalia to change
> the oil and found a one inch bolt sticking out of the oil plug area.  a wing
> nut device ther was holding a rubber stopper in place.  This thing holds the
> life blood of the engine in.  I wiggled it and it fel off in my hand!  My
> oil pan was already there but what if this had happened on the road!!!
>         I replaced the rubber stopper and it seems to be holding.  I ordered
> a new bolt from the dealer but I suspect that the inner threads may be
> stripped.  I'll try a new bolt but then what?  I have a good shadetree
> mechanic near buy but what is the best fix for this?  Help.
>
> Eric


--
Todd Francis
'86 Westy Syncro
'91 Tristar