2003 Ford Explorer leaking oil from plug?

[pierson181]

Hello, I have a 2003 Ford Explorer XLT 6 cylinder 4.0 liter and it is leaking oil from the plug I think. I looked underneath it and I saw oil where it had blew back towards the exhaust when I was driving it. I checked my oil earlier and it was a little low so I added about a quart and got it filled up. I rubbed my finger around the ring of the oil plug and I saw a drop of oil hanging there so that is why I think that it is leaking from the plug.I don't think it is leaking from the oil filter because I didn't see any around there. it is only leaking a drop or not much because it has been about 1500 hundred miles since I changed the oil. Is there supposed to be a washer behind the oil plug? Because I dont remember putting one on when I changed it. I think I might be missing a washer if there is not supposed to be a washer there then what should I do thanks guys

 

[guilateen]

There is no washer on the plug. Did you check if the bolt became loose. Also make sure the bolt and thread area is clean. Small dirt and debris can cause oil to leak. Good luck.

 

[pierson181]

Alright thanks

 

[limit]

did you do the oil change yourself? The bolt might have been over tightned damaging the thread. I would remove the drain bolt and drive a new one. Since your going to open the drain plug might as well do a oil change.

 

[esclamada]

A drain plug gasket might reduce that leak. Most of the time this gasket is not needed but it might help.



-----------------------------------------------------------
MY MOUNTY
http://www.facebook.com/diyfordexplorer/photos_albums

 

[Exproblems]

Hello, I have a 2003 Ford Explorer XLT 6 cylinder 4.0 liter and it is leaking oil from the plug I think.>>>>> I think I might be missing a washer if there is not supposed to be a washer there then what should I do thanks guys

The oil plug on my 2005 Ex 4.0L does have a bendable/flexible "plastic washer" on it. Whether it was there from the factory I do not know.

 

[tmaher]

wrap some teflon tape or pipe dope around the threads. this will seal any leak if it is coming from the plug.