So i've come across different views on using teflon tape on oil drain plugs. Some have said that it's perfectly fine for the drain plug, while others have said that by doing so, you risk getting bits of the tape in your oil system.

At the same time, i've read numerous oil temp sensor "install guides" that seem to show using teflon tape for these sensors is fine.

Question is, why does it seem acceptable for use with oil temp sensors and not so much for oil drain plugs. I mean, bits of the tape can make its way in from both sides? If that is the concern....

Or am i missing something here?

 

Dont think there is a golden rule to follow as such Errol, I have never used any on my drain plugs over the years, I just put a new washer on but i have used it every time i have installed any gauge sensors to the block.

I remember a thread from a few years back on here when some guy spent a fortune on getting a car/engine built for him then fitted some gauges himself using electrical tape which fubard the engine and he tried to pass blame on to the builder from what i recall, Excuse my memory if its wrong

 

Never heard of electrical tape being used Gaz. Did it find its way into the oil passages?

Reading up more also tells me that teflon tape also works as a thread lubricant.

I'd think that, unless the tape was wrapped around on the end of the drain plug, whatever is wrapped around the threads will be sheared off (or pushed out) when the plug is wound in? And the remaining of it at the end of the plug works like a washer/seal.

In any case, if bits found its way into the oil, wouldn't it be trapped by the oil filter?

 

i use ptfe tape on the brass fittings because i`m scared of overtightening them and feel i dont have to tighten them as much to get a good seal

 

Yes from what i recall it was found upon inspection of the engine, Not sure where though, The sensors were fitted to the block above no.3 cylinder and under the alternator so i imagine the tape had a long way to travel before reaching the filter, Obviously a bad idea as electrical tape breakes down with oil/fuel etc...

Wish i could remember what the thread was called now as it was an interesting read to say the least, might have even been a `for sale` thread?

The only thing i can remember is it being a silver classic and the engine build being done by pennine but as i say this is going back a few years now

Regarding the teflon tape you thoughts are the same as mine