OIL LEAK

Aug 12, 2006 3 Replies

I think my oil pan is leaking at the drain plug. I've replaced the plug, but no luck, no matter how tight I get it, the oil leaks, at a good clip. Has anyone had this problem? Is the only choice replacing the pan? And is that a pretty easy job, is it just unbolting the pan and bolting a new one in with fresh seal?



Steve



Is this a newer car? Sometimes the original factory washer doesn't get removed from the plug due to black paint holding it on and the new washer gets 'stacked' on such that leaking occurs.

Carl

One way or another the fix is probably pretty easy. Just make sure the leak isn't coming from somewhere else and running across the drain plug. You can clean the engine really well and then spray the area with foot powder. Any leak with show up quickly as the powder begins to absorb the oil.

Hi,

After doing this, see if you can get some copper drain plug washers (they're sometimes scarce if your Subie's got the 20mm plug, but keep looking!) I've found they sometimes seal better than the factory crush washers (which SHOULD be replaced at each oil change for best results.)

Rick

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