One of the horror stories I keep hearing over and over is stripped
oil pan plugs on the Elantra. Seems overzealous mechanics are overtightening the things....not good. Doesn't anyone use a
torque wrench anymore? I'd say no more than 30 ft/lbs. of torque should do it safely.
For those who are looking for a better way, I've come across a nifty
little patented invention... the Fumoto Engine Oil Drain Valve. This is one of the best things to come along in a long time.
You replace your standard oil pan plug with this & you'll never have to use a tool again to drain your oil!
Here's how it works... Simply take off the old drain plug (remove
your oil first!) and attach the Fumato valve in it's place. How easy is that. Once installed you simply lift the valve's lever
and turn...voila!...instant oil change. Then simply rotate the lever the other way and it locks in place so no leakage.
Simple! They also have a model with a nipple to attach a hose for super clean oil changes.
One word of caution. If you've lowered your car substantially,
the valve with the nipple may not be for you. It sticks out an inch further than the stock drain plug, and could possibly
be damaged! Otherwise, this is a great little inexpensive addition that will make things a lot easier! And you can't beat
a "lifetime" warranty. You can order it here.
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Update:
Another option is
the new Sure Drain valve from Fram. Here's how member humanlightning who owns one describes it ... " If
you feel the Fumoto protrusion distance is a concern.. Fram makes the Sure Drain system (www.fram.com) . The system does not have a valve handle, but uses a covered valve which releases oil when the matching hose is plugged
into it.. I like this system better because it is essentially an Fumoto valve with the hose & nipple, but without the
protrusion distance of a Fumoto.. The Sure Drain size you want for the Elantra GT is SD-2".
