Confused newbie trying to say hello

[martinsale]

Hi All, this is the second attempt to say hi, hope it works this time. I have no previous experience of using forums and am not sure if I am doing it correctly. Currently on my second Blingo, this one 2004 1.6 petrol but can't get the sump plug removed!

[addo]

The best way to tell if you're getting it right, is trying to submit something very wrong. Inevitably Murphy will ensure it appears just as not wanted...

[martinsale]

The best way to tell if you're getting it right, is trying to submit something very wrong. Inevitably Murphy will ensure it appears just as not wanted...

Thanks for the suggestion addo, problem is I don't usually have to try to get things very wrong, it just seems to come naturally!

[Ol'Jeffers]

Hi Martin....so your names not Murphy?
The post is fine!
Don't try to put too much force into undoing the sump
plug...you can tear the sump cover or wreck the thread! ( mucho dinero!)
Try tightening it a little first and then undoing. Also it may be an idea to
get the engine to temperature. It may be easier when warm.

[martinsale]

Thanks for those helpful tips Ol' Jeffers. The issue I was having was finding a suitable tool. The sump plug has a square hole so I needed to get a new tool. I went to Halfords and bought a universal sump drain tool; an ugly looking thing with weird protuberances sticking out of it at both ends but I figured it ought to do the trick. Only one of the shapes would fit into the square hole but was very loose and I had a feeling if I tried too hard it would round the hole so I was stuck. I went back to my shed and found a barely used centre punch with a square striking end and it fitted perfectly. With the help of an adjustable spanner the centre punch did the trick in no time and Halfords refunded the money for the universal thingy. I hope this tip will be of some help to others. Cheers.

[Tomcat3]

I think this is what halfrauds should have sold you http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/8mm-Square-Oil...3ccf746fef
Over the years you tend to collect all weird and wonderful tools for undoing different plugs. Why cant they all use the same.

[martinsale]

Thanks for the link Tomcat3, The sump plug on the first Blingo I had was a simple wrench or socket fitting. My suspicion is that manufacturers change things to make them more difficult for DIYers in order that we might have to resort to using their own extortinate service centres!

[sunset]

Hi my name is Derek and I have been the owner of a 2008 Berlingo 1.6 600 HDI Enterprise Van with 85000 mile on the clock since Saturday (15/03).