so, im changing my oil today

[teddypenn]

im changing the oil and after draining, i go to screw the drain plug back. i tighten by hand then use a socket. just when the screw starts to feel like its gettin tight, it breaks free a bit. i immediatly stopped because i had a '91 zx11 and one time the pan cracked at the oil plug after doin the change and i dont wanna have to go thru that again. anyone else experience this or got suggestions. i just stopped cause i was afraid of breaking something. help me out guys.

[mike1180]

I would try and back it out and inspect it.
Use a torque wrench to put it back in,
or if it is damaged:

Stripped oil pan fixed!

Good Luck!

[teddypenn]

thanx mike, ill try that

[dadofthree]

Good luck with it bud

[wardie]

Did you use a new crush washer? Sometimes when initialing tightening they feel a little funny when tightening. Like Mike said try the torque wrench installation. Wardie

[klatu848]

Always use a torque wrench to be sure not to strip it. Torque should be 16.5 ft lbs, or 198 in lbs. An Oz. of prevention is worth a lb of cure.

[tclause]

You may have crushed a piece of grit between the plug and the pan.

[outlawbusa]

Definitely back it out and take a look like said before...reason is, you might be able to tell if there is no damage, but if there is damage it's going to bite you at the most unexpected moment~!~

[hottrodd7]

I'ts one of my greatest fears---stripping the drain plug. As stated above, but a torque wrench (good price at Sears)--cheaper than fixing a stripped oil pan!!

[suzuka1980]

use helicoil!!!