oil change mix-up, hou to correct?

[strupgolf]

After I changed my oil, I noticed a small drip under the case. My car is bone dry usually.Then while putting the old oil into a recycle container, I noticed the bronze O ring crush thingee. I assume that it came off the case nut. Now, since the oil is good, how would you go about putting th ring back on. Should I empty the tank first, then the case: can I just empty the case and refill the oil back into the tank without it overflowing? What's the best method to use to solve this dumb thing. I've only got a few miles on the oil. Thanks for any reply

[Christien]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but when you open the engine drain up, you're going to drain the tank into the engine, so it'll all come out, one way or the other. I don't see why you can't refill with the same oil, though, assuming your drain pan is clean.

The crush washer should be copper, and you should use a brand new one with each change.

[lally911]

Get a drain pan underneath. Take the plug out and plug the hole with your thumb or hand. Pass the plug out to an assistant to put the crush ring on. Reinstall the plug and clean up the mess. If your quick it should be minimal. Add a bit of oil to make up for what spills and you are done.

[strupgolf]

A new one it will be. I thought that if I take off the case bolt first, all the oil will come out. I'm a little shy about my thumb closing the hole, just my luck it will spray all over. It wasn't too bad empyting the tank, then the case, so I'll probably do it all over again.

[Christien]

Of course, an assistant! I guess I'm just used to changing my oil on my own! I think you can do it, no problem. The hole isn't that big. Just do it with the oil cold, so you don't burn yourself.