Changed the oil at the weekend and I have just noticed that I am leaking oil at the drainplug. Presumably I can put some thread tape or sealant on it but, any tips on how to get it out and done without having to drain it all off again.

Would be good to be able to plug up the hole while I sort the sealant / tape out.

Rick

If you turn the car upside down nothing should run out.....

But seriously a finger should do the job.

Sump plugs don't seal on the thread they seal with the copper washer. Maybe a new sump plug washer would fix it.

Get a new copper washer for it. They do start to leak after a few changes.

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Personally I prefer the left thumb, but only cause I'm right handed.
You don't have your location in your profile arpy69,
but if you park it outside in Melb or Tassie in sub zero weather
the cold oil will flow out less quickly before you get your thumb over it

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Too many cars, and too little time.

I'm in Adelaide and at the moment it's brass monkeys weather, so if I do it in the morning it's plenty cold enough to slow the flow

Anyone know what size the washer is, I can go to supercrap and get a new one ready

I stumbled on this thread trying to look for an answer to the question above.
After a lengthy search I came up with this: (I hope it's correct)

16.3 X 25.4 X 2mm Sump Plug Washer Flat copper Suits Rover, Mini, Metro & 100 series (part No. AED172)

There! Now it's in two places on the entire internet!!

ALSO: Filter info - near impossible to find.
PLEASE correct me if I'm wrong .. I'm not at home so can't double check!
'77 Leyland clubman uses: Ryco Oil filter Z418 (according to Rycofilters.com.au)
and Ryco Air filter A117x.

SUGGESTION: A sticky would be a usefull addition to this forum listing all the items regularly replaced during a service for all models of Mini.

Cheers

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"Why mini? 'cause it's got the edge."

everyone should be fitting new washers EVERY oil change. this will help stop a lot of mini oil leaks

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lookin for another clubby

Ben...your suggestion is ever so slightly over the top.....

if the washer is clean, undistorted and about the right size...then there is no reason why you you cant use it again (and again, and again). Just make sure that the rebate where it seats is clean and free of grit....and that it is also clean and seated correctly Cheers, Mick

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"Show me the Mini!"

I would agree, but if you have a new one at arms reach, I would recomend a new one.

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loosen it a bit, clean it, smear some silicone on, tighten up, but don't overtighten as the thread is very easy to strip, check it out properly next oil change

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Chris

Everything I like is either
illegal, immoral or fattening.

For the price of a new sump plug washer (peanuts) and piece of mind that you aren't going to have to do the same as Rick, it is always best to put a new one on every time. Was drummed into me by an old mini mechanic for years - he saw too many leave the workshop and be back the next day.

Also make sure you have several thick rags wrapped around your arm (the one plugging the hole) as oil in the armpits ain't nice.

Pete

Some Minis have had gearbox's stripped thread repaired by fitting a Helicoil. If not drilled & tapped exactly square to the outer face, the washer will leak.
I know this as we inherited one...
A smear of Loctite 515 or 242 or 262 etc on the thread at each oilchange stops it nicely, the plug will still remove OK.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.