I have a 2003 f150 5.4. So the other day i stripped my drain plug.... i know stupid! Anyways its in there and leaking. If i turn it it just turn and turns and turns.

I heard that alot of the time the plug strips and not the pan. My question is how do i get it out without damaging the threads on the pan?

If it is the pan and not the plug then im screwed. Im wondering if there would be a way to plug it temperarily to get it to a shop if its the threads on the pan and not the plug.

 

You can buy a self threading replacement. Works fine.

 

i couldnt find a self tapping one but i found a regular. Do you have to pull the pan if you use the self tapping?

 

No you dont. I've experienced this problem more then once. I can tell you this, once you have a self tapping plug from now on DO NOT strip it again! then youll have an issue!

 

Bummer.

I put Fumoto's on all our vehicles. Mine got this one to clear the lift crossmember. It used to be a huge mess to clean after oil changes.

Now, just run some tubing into a container and it's easy peasy.

 

Auto parts stores have larger self threading oil pan drain plugs and extra large oversize plugs if you strip it with the oversize. Most any auto parts store should have them.

 

Do i need to pull the pan to self tap it?

If i wanted to change the oil pan would i have to lift the engine? I thought no because i thought i could take off the crossmember but its wleded to the frame . Now im thinking i do?

 

No, you do NOT have to pull the pan to use a self tapper.