Wrong Oil Drain Plug - 535i e28 - Need Advice

[Jimmy535i]

My friend has a 1987 535i e28, It has about 200K miles on it.

Here's the problem.

The oil drain plug is not the correct plug for this oil pan.
Apparently one of the "fine" service places along the way lost the correct
plug and substituted a 19MM.

Problem is that I fear the may have screwed up the treads and
it looks like they may have put some kind of sealant around the plug
also. It is currently not leaking at the drain hole.

The trouble is that I can't bunge this plug to remove it
for an oil change.

Should I throw my hands in the air or is there a repair kit
out there somewhere if I do attempt to remove and replace with the
correct plug. I don't want this favor to turn into a oilsump replacement
project.

Any suggestions or ideas would be appreciated.

[Martin in Bellevue]

One of those topside oil changers might be the cheapest way out.

If compelled to do things right, accept that a new pan may be in the cards. Once the plug is forced out, a short helicoil might go into the wrecked threads.

A less that right alternative would also be some jb weld and a drain plug with a valve cock.

[Jimmy535i]

Topside oil changer - Interesting idea - Can you get me some additional info -

I am guessing. Do you pump the fluid out from the dipstick tube?

[Martin in Bellevue]

I wouldn't use that ****;know they're out there. I'd find an oil pan.

Just throwing out some options.

[Jimmy535i]

I hear you. Thanks for the advice.

[Rory]

I wouldn't use that ****;know they're out there. I'd find an oil pan.

Just throwing out some options.

'

I don't know, I think based on the mileage and condition the topside changer might be the best alternative. I think they can be had (descent ones) for around $50 which is a lot cheaper and less trouble than a new pan and the labor/time involved in replacing it. Oil pans are expensive and a PITA to replace.

Of course, the topside changer is the easy way and there are some drawbacks of particles being left in the pan. But theoretically, any oil/particles that have accumulated and are not sucked out by the changer should be caught by the filter. You might want to consider changing the oil and filter a bit more frequently if you go this alternative. YMMV, just my opinion based on the age and mileage. If he plans to keep the car for a long time then do it right and replace the pan.

Good Luck,
Rory

[Jimmy535i]

Rory, Thanks also. I was thinking along the same lines.

[mikey535im]

Alternative would be to take it to an indy,they could apply heat to the drain plug to remove and worst case could weld a large equivelant size nut to the bottom of the pan where the existing drain plug hole would be to accept a correct drain plug.
Mike

[Jimmy535i]

Problem solved. I got lucky. I was able to remove the incorrect 19mm plug and
install the correct 13mm plug and washer. Very lucky that threads were surprisingly not damaged to badly. Installed new plug no leaks. Thanks again for everyones help.

[Jeff N.]

You got it. Check a marine supply shop. Used a lot in that business. I think Griots sell's one as well (www.griotsgarage.com) but they are not the least expensive choice typically.