I got an 8mm socket from pepboys that fit but clearance was tight . I ended up getting the ratchet stuck between the frame and the oil pan. I can't think of a good way to get unstuck.
Posts: 1,243
My VIN: 10201
I got an 8mm socket from pepboys that fit but clearance was tight . I ended up getting the ratchet stuck between the frame and the oil pan. I can't think of a good way to get unstuck.
Location: Syracuse, NY area
Posts: 1,026
My VIN: 10287
Club(s): (DMA)
Did you try tightening the drain plug back in and removing the socket? It got in that way so should come back out
Nick A.
1988 BMW 325is
1982 DeLorean DMC-12
1989 Jaguar XJ6
Location: Lebanon, Tennessee
Posts: 390
My VIN: 3294
Now that you've got it loose, screw it back in enough to get the wrench clear of the frame. Once you get the wrench out, take the 8mm socket off the wrench and stick it back in there and turn it by hand to remove the plug.
I tried 3 different socket wrenches last year before I found one thin enough to get in there and out of there without getting stuck. I've got a really thin profile Craftsman socket wrench that did the trick for me.
Barry Floyd
Lebanon, Tennessee
VIN 3294 - Aug. 81
Posts: 1,243
My VIN: 10201
I've been trying to screw it back in but I can't. I'm trying to switch the ratcheting to screw in but it's jammed in
Posts: 1,243
My VIN: 10201
I pried it out. Hopefully I didn't damage too much. Definitely investing in that ez oil drain valve for next time.
Location: Jarretsville, MD
Posts: 259
My VIN: 5786, 3196
Club(s): (DMA)
Just get a hex head M16x1.50 drain plug. Then, you can use a wrench on it and never have to worry about getting stuck again. That size is available at most auto parts stores.
-Derrin
5786: DPI cams and cat-less exhaust, galvanized and powder coated manual frame for a proper 5-speed conversion
3196 - My wife's DeLorean: DMCH new build, DPI rebuilt engine with performance cams and exhaust
1956 Oldsmobile Super 88
1960 Chevrolet Impala
1961 Corvette
1972 Buick Skylark GS 455 Clone
1975 Corvette (to be sold once restored)
1976 Corvette (wife's car)
1979 Corvette Daily Driver
1987 Corvette (technically wife's car)
Location: Syracuse, NY area
Posts: 1,026
My VIN: 10287
Club(s): (DMA)
+1Originally Posted by dmruschell
DeLorean vendors all sell a 19mm head drain plug with a magnetic end. Nice little insurance to have. I bought this one from John Hervey: http://specialtauto.com/delorean-par...magnetic-1.jpg
Nick A.
1988 BMW 325is
1982 DeLorean DMC-12
1989 Jaguar XJ6
Posts: 942
Home made oil plug tool (aka: old Craftsman 5/16 screwdriver with the tip cut off and bent over):
OilPlugTool.jpg
I cut the handle shorter so the tool can make a full swing without jacking the car up -- oil changes are much faster and easier when the vehicle remains on the ground (one of the advantages of a pickup truck).
I originally made a tool from hardware store 5/16 bar stock but it was too soft to hold up to repeated use. Screwdriver was Made in USA tool steel.
Bill Robertson
#5939
Location: Leesburg, NJ
Posts: 144
My VIN: 7178
Club(s): (DMA)
They make ratcheting box wrenches. Looks like they would fit in there great.
"If you're going to spend your inheritance on a car, why not do it with some style!"
Posts: 4,781
My VIN: Banged your VIN'S mom
I used an old 3/4 ratchet and just ground the head down to fit. It has worked great for the past 7+ years.
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