What do you think of a magnetic drain plug?

[Richard in NC]

Originally Posted by autoque

Forget magnetic drian plugs!

I came across this quick oil drain valve. QuickOilDrainValve.com - the best way to change oil

What do you think? More convenience for DIYers? Basically you don't need to unscrew the drain bolt to drain the old oil out. It claims one touch operation.

Now that's a great idea! Until you hit the first big bump in the road and it loosens up, draining all of your oil.....

[autoque]

X5s' oil drain plugs I think are hidden and don't stick out, so maybe for X5s it's not a bad idea after all? But of course I'm missing the covers to the drain plug http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ngine-bay.html

[autoque]

I'm reading reviews that for some people it leaks oil. I guess it's a good idea on paper but doesn't work for everyone. Can't recommend it.

[Penguin]

Originally Posted by autoque

I'm reading reviews that for some people it leaks oil. I guess it's a good idea on paper but doesn't work for everyone. Can't recommend it.

It might have made more sense in the old days with 3,000 mile oil changes, but nowadays even changing oil at half the BMW recommended interval means 7K intervals for non-diesel engines, and 5-6K intervals for most diesels.

[JCL]

Originally Posted by autoque

I'm reading reviews that for some people it leaks oil. I guess it's a good idea on paper but doesn't work for everyone. Can't recommend it.

It introduces additional failure points for a potential oil leak. I wouldn't be so worried about a slow drip, that is usually easy to catch, but a quick dump of oil can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Agree with Penguin that oil drain plugs really don't need much improvement for the limited use they get.

Now, if you wanted to install a sampling port for a regular oil sampling program, that would be useful.

[rayxi]

IMO, the valves creates an unnecessary constriction to the oil flow during draining. Judging from the picture the hole has about 1/4 the cross section of drain pan hole. The faster the oil can flow the more sludge it can carry.

One touch operation doesn't sound like a selling feature. I don't want my oil to drain out of my engine with just one touch. I'd feel safer knowing it took a few deliberate steps before it came out.

[redvault]

Originally Posted by autoque

Forget magnetic drian plugs!

I came across this quick oil drain valve. QuickOilDrainValve.com - the best way to change oil

What do you think? More convenience for DIYers? Basically you don't need to unscrew the drain bolt to drain the old oil out. It claims one touch operation.

I have it installed on my X5. They are quality product and very good. What I like best about it is that you can now drain the oil while the oil is still "piping" hot - good clean drain. Remember to get the right attachment that comes with it.

[FSETH]

Originally Posted by JCL

Installing one that is the correct size can't hurt, especially if you are in the habit of leaving old tools in the oil pan (per the picture in your first post).

Thank you for that.

[scoffee]

rod bearings and rings likely contain iron, metal filings from these would indicate an issue.

[Lubehead]

If one really wants to make draining the oil easy, the best product is a Femco oil drain valve. It requires a mating drainer, doesn't hinder flow and will last the life of the vehicle. Far superior to the other product, these are commercial grade units designed for trucking and heavy equipment applications but also available in thread sizes for passenger cars and light trucks.