Sump plug

[John042]

Hi, this doesn't look good? Was going to drain the engine oil and was confronted with a sump plug sump requiring a 28mm socket. I didn't apply too much force to it reasoning that either the previous owner had damaged the sump threads or actually welded in an insert. Oil was removed using the dipstick hole. For the future, can the sump be removed with the engine in situ? 350i engine. Thanks J C.

[adam quantrill]

It does look like it has a washer, so probably a welded in boss but a moveable stopper.

[John042]

Agreed Adam but a mighty large plug? I couldn't see any evidence of an insert being welded to the sump so decided that caution was best course of action and drain the oil with my vacuum pump. The plug I'll leave for another day but can the sump be removed if necessary with the engine in situ? J C.

[gas mart 1]

The sump can be removed with the engine in place. I had to remove ours, to replace the gasket. I think the drain plug on ours is 28mm.

[John042]

Thanks Martin, maybe it is the original sump plug? Just a peculiar washer set up. J C.

[adam quantrill]

28mm is probably 1 1/8" which is on at least one of mine because that's my greasiest socket!

[John042]

Thanks Adam. Maybe misalined previous owner? J C.

[ElvisWedgeman]

I always use a good quality adjustable spanner on the sump plug as it is big. I’m always careful not to over tighten afterwards. It looks like someone has used a wide washer on yours otherwise it looks normal.

Tony. TCB.

[John042]

Thanks Tony initial inspection did surprise me as to the size of the plug. My 2.8i being 13-14mm. Agreed it's probably the washer setup. J C.

[adam quantrill]

There are two extra spark plugs too ;^)

[John042]

Really Adam do I need them or are they spares? My trusty 2.8i Wesley (Still for sale, despite 2 dealers offers) still has the ability to surprise and scare me. J C.