Skid plate

#1

Finally had some time to install the skid plate over the oil pan area.

Everything went in well and I think it’s going to offer a nice protection.

The only bad thing is now I have to take off the plate each time I change oil. (and I do change the oil a lot)

I was thinking about maybe cutting a hole to access the drain bolt.
I would like to cut out an area as small as possible and yet be able to drain the oil.

Anyone have done this? Any design ideas?

#2

I’ve just accepted the fact that I’m going to have to remove mine.

But Paton or/Chuck were talking about some kind of an arm or right angle pipe that would simplify the process?

I don’t know that a small hole will work. The way the stream moves… it would get pretty messy

#3

I’m going to look for some pipe fittings.

Anyone know the spec on the drain plug? Is it 14mm - 1.5?

#4

I installed the skid plate recently. Drilled a hole through it right under the drain plug with a hole saw. Then I bought a cheap plastic skinny funnel & cut the top til it fit nicely through the hole to the plug for draining. Works great.
tom

#5

Interesting ideas, guys. Chi, the bolt is M12x1.5 spec, and Tom, I’d like to see this cut-down funnel that you made.

Robert has a supply of drain valves that have a slider to open/close, but they don’t have a 90-degree bend so while a wrench isn’t required, it still projects the oil sideways, which means messy. I’ll look into whether a 90 degree version of the drain fitting that he has is available.

This feedback is good, though. I had thought that removal/reinstallation of the plate was easy enough that people wouldn’t mind, but obviously some of you guys are looking for a better way, so why not?