$30 in oil and didn't install plug washer - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

ShawnTRD · 12-05-2011, 08:29 PM

After changing my oil I notice the plug washer in the drain pan. Doesn't look to be leaking at all. But I'm going to be watching it.

carsrus · 12-05-2011, 08:49 PM

DO NOT risk shit like that. 30$ vs a new engine is a big difference.

Plus if you take a clean milk jug and drain off into there you can reuse the oil.

***Zembonez*** · 12-05-2011, 08:59 PM

^^^ Yes you could reuse the oil. In my opinion, if the plug is tight it isn't going to go anywhere. If it's not leaking, run with it.

Yuko · 12-05-2011, 09:18 PM

If you're quick enough; you can remove the plug, slide on a new washer, and re-install the oil drain plug. Then just top of the oil.

Pandalizer · 12-05-2011, 11:45 PM

lol should probably drain the oil into a jug and put the washer back on...

mgartner0622 · 12-06-2011, 12:12 AM

I don't even remember my car having a plug washer for the last 40k or so, and then the last time I took it into my mechanic he mentioned I didn't have one.
I ran for at least 40k without it, but had I been aware I would have fixed it. Running without it for a few days should be fine, but I'd get one on there since you are aware of it.
On a side note, how often should the plug washer be changed? I've never worried about that on this car.

ShawnTRD · 12-06-2011, 04:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yuko

If you're quick enough; you can remove the plug, slide on a new washer, and re-install the oil drain plug. Then just top of the oil.

I was thinking about that last night. I can hole my finger over the drain hole and have a friend install the washer then slip it back on. I would loss less then a QT.

twodoorcamry · 12-06-2011, 11:49 AM

I bought my 94 2.2 exactly a year ago and it didn't come with a drain plug washer. I do oilchanges every two months and I never had any leaks.

I have the wide bolthead style plug though, if that matters... Thought that it wasnt supposed to have a washer...

Pauloil · 12-06-2011, 07:17 PM

If it ain't broke and doesn't leak.....

hardtopte72 · 12-08-2011, 01:35 AM

The Toyota drain plug gaskets are really good about lasting a long time as they are paper on a metal washer ring. I would not advise you to try and drain and replace the gasket quickly as they are hard to get off if they have been on a while and you would have to refill the whole engine by the time it was replaced.

You should definitely replace it though. I have seen a few oil pans get stripped from pulling the threads when tightening the bolt with a smashed and overused gasket. This however is after a long time.

Plus it is only like 75 cents for it at a dealer. Do not go to advance auto parts and buy the metal washer like a honda. Buy the right one.