Im not really sure where this thread belongs, but ive got a problem... So i just get ready to change my oil, my warranty ran out in jan so this is my first time doing it on the MINI myself, i have the car jacked up, got my 13mm socket ready to go and dove under for a quick pull and drain. not so much... as i place the 13mm onto the bolt i realized it was stripped... completely... does anyone have any idea how to save me on this?!?!?! please anything... thanks in advance

 

You mean the HEAD of the bolt is stripped, the BOLT threads are stripped or the PAN threads are stripped?

If it's the head - that's easy. A pair of vice grips should suffice. Buy a new bolt before starting.
If it's one of the latter two (or both) then you either helicoil, or replace the pan.
I'm hoping it's the first.

 

it was the first... haha i jus kinda freaked and didnt think logically or practically... haha i was looking for some crazy in depth technique... haha thanks you very much...

 

In case some time you ever get buggered threads, there are oversize plugs available. I know Pep Boys, AutoZone, Napa carry them. They're slightly oversize and basically cut new threads. They have multiple steps between the normal bolt sizes.

You could end up with them without even knowing it if a shop or dealer changes oil (and doesn't bother just putting the bolt in anyway and sending you on the way).

One reason I tend to do it myself even while under warranty...

 

thanks guys... now the damn bolt wont budge... i just cant win... soaked the thing in WD-40 and rust inhibitor... nothing... oi!!!

 

1)BIG vice grips, clamped down tight

2a) Big pipe over end of vice grip
or
2b) BFH (Big Freakin' Hammer) applied judiciously (lefty-loosie!)

2a) is probably the more efficatious method
2b) might make you feel better after all the frustration

Another alternative is to grind down two flats on the edge of the bolt and use a big adjustable wrench.

 

thanks again!!!

 

Or you could buy a "Bolt Out" that will grip any edge left on the bolt and you can use a standard socket set to back it out.
If it is still stuck, a "cheater" bar works easier on a socket wrench then on vice-grips.

T

 

I wet back tore the dealer a new one for having it on too tight and not to spec work by them within the last year the repalced pan and plug for free.

 

I read on NAM that PEPBOYS sells a magnetic drain plug size 14x1.50 thread as a replacement for $4.95.

 

It is always the best to let them fix their mistakes.

Stripping the head is very hard/impossible if you use the correct socket (6-point)

Glad this worked out for you. Just don't strip the threads. That is a headache!

Tim

 

Glenns0245 -
Now that you can get the plug out, order a Fumoto valve and you never have to worry about a stripped bolt or pan threads again.

http://www.fumotovalve.com/

I put one on my car 2-oil changes ago and it made life a breeze!

T

 

Even though those fumoto valves have a safety lock, I would still safety wire it.