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Timesert to fix stripped aluminum oil pan thread: Can I use a shorter than OEM drain plug with the same size threads?


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eebz
New User

Sep 30, 2021, 9:32 AM

Post #1 of 2 (987 views)
Timesert to fix stripped aluminum oil pan thread: Can I use a shorter than OEM drain plug with the same size threads? Sign In

 
Hi all, so I stripped the thread on the aluminum oil pan on my 2016 BMW 328i xdrive 2.0L 60k miles.

I want to try to fix it with a timesert because I can't drop the subframe myself and change the oil pan and I'd rather not pay +$1.5K to get it replaced at a shop.

I know the oil drain plug is a size M12x1.5 and 16.2mm and I have a timesert kit for that size.

My question is if anyone sees any draw backs to using a M12x1.5 and 9.2mm timesert? This would be a shorter drain plug size than the OEM drain plug. My logic is that if I use a timesert shorter that 16.2mm I wont be going through the whole 16.2mm drain hole in the oil pan when installing the 9.2mm timesert and therefore minimizing the metal shavings inside the oil pan. It might be a stretch in logic, I know, but I want to minimize the chance of metal shavings in my oil pan while still doing the timesert repair. I also know to flush oil through the pan after doing the repair will help drain some excess oil shavings but I want to be very cautious

So what do you guys think? Would a 9.2mm length drain plug be "weaker" and risk falling out/leaking while driving or are there other draw backs like maybe the next guy who changes the oil (not me) uses a 16.2mm plug and damages the threads because they didn't know the bolt length changed to 9.2mm?

Or should I just stick to the 16.2mm length drain plug like OEM because that's how the engineers designed it and why change that?

Please let me know your thoughts!


(This post was edited by eebz on Sep 30, 2021, 9:33 AM)


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Sep 30, 2021, 11:18 AM

Post #2 of 2 (964 views)
Re: Timesert to fix stripped aluminum oil pan thread: Can I use a shorter than OEM drain plug with the same size threads? Sign In

Bummer!
I'd be asking a dealer for suggestions if so you can see if oil pan has a thicker hunk of alloy there to change out plug for another.

Stinks for sure - IDK for sure either but would want to be able to use a washer (sealing type) just for it when done so length matters.

They make "oversize" drain plugs act like a tap going in not so sure best idea for this?

For now if so bad you don't dare drive it there are stretch rubber ones make a mushroom inside (I stock one never used but get the idea) and would toss that or I would when the real fix is done.

It was a BMW dang pan was too low (made that way) owner bumped a parking bumper things and cracked pan! Same deal, wild costs so patched it forget just with was time to trade it so let it go that time.

You may need some time to find out just what you are dealing with dealer either a help or does new pans only??

For filings if you go that way, cover any tap with heavy grease they should stick to it.

Same if you drill for a Helicoil (brand of thread inserts) but I don't think they use the right threads for drain plugs?

Said it all up top in one word - "Bummer!"

T







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