Hello,

I too am part of the stripped drain plug fraternity.  I had a helicoil
installed.  Probably went in crooked, didn't solve the problem.  Brought it to
the VW dealer who tried "cleaning" it up.  Still dripped.  Brought it back he
said the sealing surface is "pitted" and I need new case halfs or a short
block.  Obviously not.  Here's what I'm thinking.  I saw a product in IMPARTS,
that catalogue of strange tools and imported items (ph 800-325-9043) that I
think may work but I need your opinions.  It's called an Oil Drain Valve ($17)
"The valves are made from machined brass with a stainless steel ball that is
round to within.001.  and  have teflaon sealing rings.  A locking lever keeps
the thing closed until you open it. Sizes to fit most cars.
    Seems to me I could intall this once permanently and just use the valve to
change the oil.  What do you think?  Would this work?  Also, what is permatex
and would I have to add it to the pitted surface before having this valve
installed?
Any thought appreciated.
Craig Charles (Driveway's a mess)
87 Westy gl