after taking the DS down to the dealership and talking to the guys there, im down to 2 GOOD options for fixing my stripped oil drain plug hole in the engine case. 1 to get the Helicoil kit to ensure a solid fix, or 2 replace the casing which would be a mini fortune. Now the prob wit the Helicoil kit is that they can get it but its $200 since its a 18 x 1.50 size, which nobody caries of course! I do not want to half *** it and try to self tap it with chance of cracking the case, and i dont want to rip the engine out which would also cost a mini fortune, so helicoil is my way to go. Now i've found kits online but they are labeled spark plug kits, does anyone know about these kits? Im going to call the dealership to ensure proper size and fitment before i purchase anything, but i thought id ask on here to see if i could get any quick responses since dealerships close so early lol, any info would be great on the kits

 

what about a slightly larger automotive drain plug and retap the hole? could even be standard and no one would know. try napa auto parts and take your old plug with you

 

This is a brilliant idea that will save you money. Just make sure your new drain plug isn't any longer than the OEM one[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I'm not sure how cast metal taps...but usually give about 2-3 turns with tap and back up 1 turn then continue depending how deep you are going............my 2-cents

 

i looked into self tapping bolts, but the length is the problem, the DS drain plug is so short, all automotive ones r so long and will hit the screen inside the engine, i could start tapping it and then cut it down to size, but that makes me nervous, id rather have piece of mind and go wit the helicoil, thanx tho [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

Nick,

Your going to have to drill and tap the hole no matter what you do. The helicoil kit comes with its own tap and drill. You dont have to spend 200 bucks on this. 20 tops. Go to your local hardware store. Pick up a 11/16 drill, a 3/4-16 tap, a 3/4-16 hex head bolt and 1 oring. Ive done this on alot of stripped out drain plugs. Ace hardware carries the tools cheap, but if you need a place to buy them, try www.mcmaster.com. Just my 2 cents. Tapping the hole wont be difficult, just keep the tap straight. Take your time and you will have this done in 15 minutes.

Gary

 

I can't add any more opinions than the others have given, BUT when you do your work be sure and get some GOOD drill oil that is ment for aluminum. Use it for drilling and for tapping.

 

And a dam good suggestion none the less. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img][img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

thanx alot u guys, luckily a local shop has the 18 x 1.50 helicoil so shes gettin all fixed up right now! Thanx to all for their input!