DAmn Damn Damn. Somebody help. I was changing my oil this evening when I stupidly stripped the head of the oil drain plug. Then, I used "vise" grips thinking tat would work, but it only worsened the condition of the bolt head. Now after f*@&ing with it for so long it is in extremely POOR condition. I can't get it off. to replace it with a new one! Any suggestions would be appreciated. (Yes, I know I shoul've paid $25 to have it done. What can I say... I don't trust anyone with my baby and I'm a cheap f**k) Thanks!

Mike

 

this was not a bad idea changing your own oil! don't be so hard on yourself now, $hit happens
see if the bolt thick enough that you can make a cut with a rotary too then unscrew with a blade driver

 

That is a very good suggestion. I've done that several times with stripped/broken bolts. Go get yourself a dremel and cut a slot into the top of the bolt, put a screwdriver in there, and turn to the LEFT. Next time, use the correct size wrench/socket. Good luck!

 

Did you strip the threads or the head of the oil pan bolt?

It sounds more like you stripped the threads in the oil pan. The oil pan bolt is hardened steel and to strip the threads on that would be a feat.

I've had the threads on the oil pan in my Integra stripped. They had to use a tap and die to create new threads and put in a larger oil pan bolt.

 

 

Thanks for the help everyone. I'll keep those ideas in mind in case that happens ever again. However, I was able to finally get my vice grips to twist it off after the engine had completely cooled off after sitting over night. You should have seen the plug-head....chewed up like a motherf***er. Believe me... I don't plan on torquing it so tight next time. Thanks again. Adios homies.

Mike