Drain Bolt coming loose

I have a ongoing issue with the engine oil drain bolt becoming almost just finger tight when I service my 09 Tacoma and my 08 4 Runner. Same engine (4.0). I am thnking it must be the be the gasket that I am getting from the dealer. It looks almost like a cardboard (for lack of better terms) gasket. Any suggestions? I am now in the habbit of checking it every 1500 miles or so and just giving it a little snung turn of the wrench.

 

Get some new gaskets? And make sure the bolt isn't stripped.

 

i dont use the gasket on mine and just 1/4" turn past finger tight works good for me, sounds like some of the threads could be stripped towards the bolt head

 

If the threads are stripped on the bolt, replace it. If they're stripped in the pan, carefully wrap the bolt threads in teflon tape. You don't want to wrap the first couple threads, so there's no chance of some tape shredding off and getting into the oil. If it's just a case of the damn thing won't stay tight, use some Loctite removable. Ask the guy at the parts counter which one.

 

There are several sources for oversize self-tapping replacement drain plugs online. However, if you have troubles tightening the plug with a washer you might look and see if there are actually two washers there -- the original metal one might be stuck to the bottom of your drain pan.

 

Sounds more like the bolt hole threads are stripped, if that's the case you can take off the oil pan and carry it to a machine shop. Let them re-thread it bigger to the next bolt size, you would need a new bolt too but that's the best fix IMO. Nothing wrong with the fiber (cardboard) OEM gaskets, a lot of auto manufacturers use them.

 

After you're done making sure the threads are ok, put in a fumoto oil drain valve and you'll never have a problem again. I've used them for years and they're great.

 

Check the torque on the bolt

 

Replace that drain bolt with a Fumoto valve..
You'll thank me at every oil change.
http://www.fumotousa.com/

 

Would my skid plate still cover/protect
this valve on the rocks/trail?

 

They say if you use it offroad to buy a clamp:


For users under extreme conditions:
If you are using the Engine Oil Drain Valve on off-road vehicles such as farm tractors and logging equipment under extreme environment (i.e. corn fields, brush areas), it is recommended that a hose clip as shown below be used for extra safety and security. The hose clip, which can be purchased at any hardware stores, will firmly keep the lever in the locked position at all times.

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Drain Valve Size Hose Clip Size T, FG Series 11/16" Clip F Series 5/8" Clip


I am going to pick two of these up from my local dealer. At 20 a piece, making the oil change that less nasty. I am all for it.

 

maybe or DEFINITELY

 

Threadlocker 707 FTW

 

On my last oil change (my very first) drain bolt came out with no washer. I was thinking maybe it fell in the oil pan drain. Anyway I had one that came from the OEM filter I bought. As I was tightening the drain bolt, I noticed that it was not as flush as it was before.

Then I read from other posts that the original washer might be stuck in the pan. I just tightened it real snug but I doubt if its torqued at 30 ft lbs. Might be around 20 ft lbs. I do not want to risk stripping it. Anyway, I inspect it occassionally and no leaks and no sign of it coming out.

On my next oil change I will consider the fumoto and make sure that the old washers are definitely out. I am keeping an eye on it.

 

I had this problem too last oil change...don't think any threads are stripped...might be cause of the plastic washer I replaced the original with....might need a better washer?

 

From the dealer tech..Drain plug:18 lb.ft.

 

Thanks for the info.

Did they have skid plates?

 

That's good to know.Thanks!!
I have BudBuilt.