Post by
Throckmorton »
https://forums.nicoclub.com/throckmorton-u134181.html
Wed Aug 25, 2010 4:41 pm
Here is what the Nissan Factory Service manual says about changing oil. I wonder what they know that we do not know?
I know that Nissan is not able to balance their corporate books by relying on the sale of crush washers. Could it be that they are attempting to prevent problems in the future with your drain pan leaking?
From the Nissan Altima Service Manual:
1. Position the vehicle so it is level on the hoist.
2. Warm up the engine and check for oil leaks from the engine.
3. Stop engine and wait for 10 minutes.
4. Remove the oil pan drain plug and oil filler cap.
5. Drain the engine oil.
6. Install the oil pan drain plug with a new washer and refill the engine with new engine oil.
Oil pan drain plug : 34.3 N·m (3.5 kg-m, 25 ft-lb)
CAUTION:
• Be sure to clean the oil pan drain plug and install with a new washer.
• The refill capacity depends on the oil temperature and drain time.
Not once but TWICE the crush washer was mentioned in this procedure. Coincidence or Conspiracy?
Not one but TWO major manufactures--Honda and Nissan-- say the exact same thing about crush washers. Coincidence or Conspiracy?
Here is Honda’s advice:
The crush washer does more than prevent a leak between your drain plug and oil pan. A crush washer is designed to be a one time 'use and throwaway' item. It is designed to 'crush', so you don't strip the threads on the oil pan, by over tightening the bolt. They are not designed to be reused, however as you have discovered, you can reuse them.
The new washer, purchased either at a Nissan dealer, Auto Zone, Advance Auto, Pep Boys, etc, is very cheap. I think I spent just a few dollars for a pack of them, and they will last me quite a while.
I know from experience about changing the washer. A few years back, I owned a 1986 Accord. I changed oil and filter every 3000 miles, never changing the drain bolt crush washer. After a few short years, I stripped the threads on the oil pan from over tightening the drain bolt.
I spent over $200.00 having a new oil pan installed. Now I have learned my lesson, and change the crush washer every time. What you do with your car is your choice.