To really do it right, take the van to your favorite mechanic, and have
him install a helicoil. Then you can use the correct size drainplug
again, and as good owner practice, NEVER let anyone else change your oil.

The thread thing usually occurs because the crush gasket that goes under
the head of the drain plug is never replaced, just used over and over
again. Proper procedure is to replace that crush gasket with a new one
EVERY TIME the oil plug is pulled.

I carry a bag full of these gaskets in my van with my oil change kit.
You should do the same.

Regards,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Kevin Carrubba wrote:

>Volks,
>After dealing with the clutch slave cylinder last week I decided to put off
>the oil change till this week.  Well, nothings easy.  I pulled the plug and the
>threads came with it.  Any one know what the next size up is for a 2.1?  I'm
>thinking I can go up a size and retap the hole?   Auto zone had one 14x1.25
>but it was 2/8  of and inch to long and I was not sure if that would hit the
>camshaft.  No good part stores open today so I'll have to wait till tomorrow to
>see if I can find the right length  unless does it matter?  The last place to
>change the oil was some quick place in OH  and was the first time it was not
>serviced by the dealer in San Diego since new.  Sure glad the PO saved $10...
> I'll never let anyone change the oil on my cars anymore.  Is this a common
>problem of the 2.1   my last 88 had the same problem after a jiffy lube
>Thanks
>Kevin
>87 Westy
>81 Vanagon
>
>
>