pocketrocket

iTrader: (1)

I just got back from Autozone to get some oil change stuff for my Escort (filter, drain plug, washer, etc.)

Anyway, here's the scoop:

Drain plug: Autozone sells a magnetic engine oil drain plug (Motormite brand) for my Escort, I assume they would have one for the Maxima too ... if so, I wouldn't mind a magnetic enngine oil drain plug.

Washer: When I changed the oil last, I had a slight leak around the washer so I changed it. Since I couldn't make it to the dealer, I bought one from the local auto parts store. It came with a plastic washer.

However, Autozone sells:
copper washer, same as OEM
brass washer w/ rubber-lined center
plastic washer

I'm wondering which washer type is best to use. I went ahead and got the copper one coz the OEM one was copper too ... but I'm wondering which one is better / lasts longer.

KLoWnPR109

iTrader: (9)

I would go either with the copper or the brass with the rubber. Make sure that whenever you change your oil, you make sure to wipe down any oil that has gotten in places it shouldn't be I work at an oil change place, and countless customers will come back and complain about leaks, when in fact, the lower bay guy just didn't wipe down the vehicle. Also, after you tighten the drain plug, we usually spray some paint on there for a little bit of a seal, plus if there is oil leaking, it will be easier to tell.

max107

My thoughts exactly.

mingo

iTrader: (4)

i'm real happy wiht the nissan copper crush ring.. but if i were to go with something else i'de still stick with copper. i wanted to get a magnetic drainplug, but hadn't found one in our size.

karguy

Are you sure it was platic and not nylon? My daughter's 89 Toyota Celica came with a nylon washer. Car has about 250,000 miles on it and am still using the original nylon washer. That comes out to 83 oil and filter changes in 13 years!
Be well!!!!

deadrx7conv

The copper ones last just about forever(if torqued). The plastic ones will break/crack if overtightened(very common leak point). It makes no difference which one you use. Just remember not to over/undertighten the plug. Leaks are caused by over/undertightening. Overtightening causes groves in the copper washers(leak points) and will crack the plastic/nylon ones. The rubber-lined ones are good for stopping plug leakage for the backyard mechanic--especially if selling car or if you don't own a torque wrench and tend to use brute force. The rubber coating will fill the "grooves" and are usually leakproof. The rubber-lined ones don't last long. The rubber will stick to the pan/plug during removal.

The problem with the magnetic drain plugs is that threads usually fit a little loose or sloppy. They are not manufactured too well. Their tolerances are too high. I've never seen one fit too well. Just go to radio shack and buy a $1 magnet and stick it on the filter. It will do the same thing and will not add another leak point. But, I like the all-rubber/neoprene washer that they come with. Several oil changes already and it doesn't look to bad. But, the plug would leak without it.

pocketrocket

iTrader: (1)

Yeah, I think copper would be the best bet (though the brass w/ rubber looks nice too). The plastic (nylon?) washer just looked like a no-no to me.

For $0.69/each, can't complain. "wash"-er away!