Coolant drain plug on block 525i - correct one?

[katit2]

I lost plug and can't find it. Ordered new one with washer. Now it goes almost all way in by hand and I assume it has to go it all the way but it won't. Stops around 1/8 of an inch. Does this part look correct? Should I just force it? Didn't want to strip block. Anybody remember what it looks like?

It's 13mm head, I think original one was bigger.

IMG_0140.jpgIMG_0141.jpg

[ross1]

Looks right to me. Thread should be M14 x 1.5 It is not pipe thread so should easily screw in, the ring makes the seal, not the threads. Probably junk in the treads deeper in. Chase the threads and try again.

[katit2]

Yes, it goes in correctly and easily. I don't have M14x1.5 tap to chase threads and not sure I want to do that (dirt into block)
I think I'm going to take 2mm off the threads on a lathe and put it in.

[whiskychaser]

13mm does look way too small. From memory, I am thinking more like 17mm. The washer is probably 14mm ID and 18mm OD. If that is what you have and the thread and flange on the bolt are right, the spanner size does not really matter. Not suggesting you try to cut new threads with the bolt but maybe try adding a little penetrating oil?

[ross1]

Make your own chaser from an old bolt. Just use a cutting wheel or hack saw to cut a slightly helical groove into the threads, clean up rough edges and screw it in.
I wouldn't worry about a bit of debris going in, there is already plenty of it anyway. Heavy grease on the "chaser" will catch most of it if it really bothers you.
The plug is absolutely the size I mentioned as I measured the one I took out of an M50 last week. Hex size is 13mm.

[whiskychaser]

Maybe they used a smaller bolt head on later cars? I use Ross's technique for cleaning out block threads. Must have gone to the same school. I think Ross was a few years below me though

[katit2]

Must have gone to the same school. I think Ross was a few years below me though

And I bet you both have piles of spare M14x1.5 short bolts to make chasers from

[ross1]

And I bet you both have piles of spare M14x1.5 short bolts to make chasers from

True, here anyway. How about you Whisky?

[whiskychaser]

5295a76fe[1].gifOh yes. Wouldn't be without them