General 2.8JTD Oil drain plug

[clarkpeacock]

Hi all

I have a 2002 model Fiat Ducato with the 2.8JTD engine which is dripping oil from the oil drain plug. I guess the plug only wants pinching up a bit tighter but I don't have a plug wrench that will fit. It looks like it might be a large size torx type fitting but I'm not sure.

Anyone know what tool I need?

Also, this leak has started since it was serviced in March, but only driven less than 500 miles since, (its a camper van so not used much) Of course the garage it was done at aren't interested (MAN/Iveco 'approved' service centre) as it was 3 months ago, but I was wondering if there is an O ring on the drain plug which should be replaced and maybe wasn't?

Finally - can anyone recommend a service centre in the Derby (UK) area for next time. Its too big for the local Fiat dealer at 8 metres long, 3 metres high with tag axle and 4.5 tonnes GVW.

Thanks in advance.

 

[wayfarer]

I don't see any mention of a seal, but the drain plug must be cleaned and tightened. It would be worth it to drain the oil and do this. A new gallon of oil will be worth it. The wrench size is either a 10mm or 12 mm allen key as far as I know.

 

[clarkpeacock]

Thanks Wayfarer. Sounds like a job for this weekend!

By the way, any idea what is the best oil to use in this engine?

 

[wayfarer]

Any good branded semi-synthetic, but if you want the best, but its expensive, try Castrol Magnatec. If you are not doing much mileage per year and you really need to do a service every year at start of season no matter the mileage, one of the branded semi's will be more than enough. You should do the service yourself, its quiet easy and saves a packet. Contact me if you need info and if I can help no probs.

 

[clarkpeacock]

Thanks for your offer of help Wayfarer. Much appreciated!

 

[clarkpeacock]

Crawled under van tonight armed with 12mm allen key - spot on wayfarer it fits!

Found oil leak was due to drain plug only being finger tight!! Suffice to say - I will NOT be using that garage again.......

 

[wayfarer]

glad that worked. Rember if you want to do the service yourself, send me an e-mail and I will give the info

 

[T14086]

There should be no seal/washer fitted.

 

[wayfarer]

The problem is solved

 

[MarkEJ]

You were very lucky it was so wonderfully simple. I have a 2003 2.8JTD with an oil leak (drip every 6 seconds) -- it seems that the sump pan has simply rusted through!

Even though the mileage is fairly high at 101k, I think this is outrageous, as logically the part must either have been rusty before installation (not much chance for it to rust afterwards -- with heat & all) or rusted while sitting in a damp field awaiting delivery...

Either way, it's about 115 quid for a new pan & gasket, and probably 80 quid for new oil & filter (ouch). What oil do people here use in 2.8JTDs?

TIA

Mark

 

[wayfarer]

Hi MarkEJ,
Check reply #4 above.

 

[Whiskeymac]

Just in case this old thread is of benefit to anyone.

I have just had a service carried out by a well respected Fiat mechanic and he used PTFE tape as a matter of course when refitting the sump plug. I asked why and he said it was because there is no seal on that model.

A roll of PTFE is very useful to have in the garage and can be used on plumbing fittings if a leak needs fixing.

 

[PeterM]

G'day Wayfarer
I see you are still active on FF.
I am considering doing my own servicing on my 2006 2.8jtd motorhome as I am in the situation you mention here:

Any good branded semi-synthetic, but if you want the best, but its expensive, try Castrol Magnatec. If you are not doing much mileage per year and you really need to do a service every year at start of season no matter the mileage, one of the branded semi's will be more than enough. You should do the service yourself, its quiet easy and saves a packet. Contact me if you need info and if I can help no probs.

What Info do you suggest is needed for such a job. I have the handbook which lists the things that should be done. Don't know where I will be able to get suitable filter etc, but then I have yet to look.

Peter

 

[condyboy]

Just in case this old thread is of benefit to anyone.

I have just had a service carried out by a well respected Fiat mechanic and he used PTFE tape as a matter of course when refitting the sump plug. I asked why and he said it was because there is no seal on that model.

A roll of PTFE is very useful to have in the garage and can be used on plumbing fittings if a leak needs fixing.

Hi, I used to work as a mechanic on all sorts of vehicles (started out as a trainee mechanic for Kawasaki) And I use PTFE tape on all sump plugs even those with a sealing washer!
It is a most useful item to have as it also works as a mild threadlock and helps to stop nuts and bolts rattling loose!

 

[daza001]

G'day Wayfarer
I see you are still active on FF.
I am considering doing my own servicing on my 2006 2.8jtd motorhome as I am in the situation you mention here:



What Info do you suggest is needed for such a job. I have the handbook which lists the things that should be done. Don't know where I will be able to get suitable filter etc, but then I have yet to look.

Peter

If you do service your own motor dont put any fuel cleaner in it the high pressure fuel pumps dont like it and can break up costing loads.
seen it before.

 

[PeterM]

If you do service your own motor dont put any fuel cleaner in it the high pressure fuel pumps dont like it and can break up costing loads.

Thanks Daza