Many folks have pmailed me about the plug I mention in an eariler post.  The
aftermarket oil plug I was referring to is NOT designed to retap your pan
and then fill a larger, threaded hole.

The plug I'm talking about get used after your rethreaded hole also becomes
stripped and there is no longer any material to put new threads into.  The
plug consists of a rubber cylinder about 3/4 inch long and maybe 1/2 inch in
diameter.  At one end there is a wingnut, at the other a flat metal plate
about the size of a dime.

You insert the plug, plate first and then turn the wingnut until snug.  The
rubber cylinder expands as you turn, filling the drain hole.  It's an
inelegant solution, but it beats getting a new block.

I don't know how well this plug works (I don't let quick lube places change
my oil in order to keep the unwary from stripping the hole).  But, if anyone
is interested, I'll find out from my mechanic who makes this device and how
much it is.

Michael B. Harrnacker
89 Weekender "Nameles"
91 Golf "Miami"
http://ruralinstitute.umt.edu/vwbus
vanagon@rudi.montech.umt.edu

"Never miss a good chance to shut up."