My WIndstar drain plug thread stripped

[97windstar3.8]

I bought a new drain plug M14X1.25 and found it is a little bit smaller .
Anyone know the original drian plug size?

Or how to fix the stripped thread?
Thanks.

[rhandwor]

Take the damaged drain plug into a parts store with experienced help. I've bought a tap at the hardware you need a thread gage to get orginal size.
I've also bought a self tapping oversize drain plug it depends on how bad they are stripped. I've also put on new oil pans. You have to determine how much metal you have and then solve the problem.
My 1997 Ford F-150 I cleaned up the threads with a tap I purchased at the hardware store. I then used a new drain plug.

[wiswind]

I looked up 1997 3.8L Ford Windstar on the rockauto website.
They list "oil pump drain plug".....and under "more information", it sure looks like the oil pan drain plug.
Rock Auto is a online auto parts store.

It is a M14-1.5

Partsamerica website lists it under "Engine Parts & Mounts" as "Oil pan drain plug"......also lists it as M14 x 1.5
Parts America has you enter your zip code and will indicate if it is in stock at your local Advance Auto, Checker Auto Parts, Schucks Auto Supply, Kragen Auto Parts, or Murray's Auto Parts

AutoZone also lists it as a M14 x 1.5 (14mm)

They also list it as having a head size of 17mm

Sounds like you will not have a problem locating the original size.

Hopefully the threads in the oil pan are OK.
Otherwise, you may end up needing a slightly bigger plug.

You DON'T want to have to replace the oil pan if you don't have to.
You need to drop the "Y" (includes both catalytic converters) pipe to drop the oil pan......
So.....as mentioned above......one can go slightly bigger......retap with the correct tool ( you may be able to rent from AutoZone if you don't have one).....or get help from a friend, who has done this sort of thing before.

Auto part stores like Napa and Autoquest almost certainly also carry the part....write down the size that I list......and explain your problem....and they may offer great advice.
I only mention the stores that I did as I was trying to see the size and if it is readily available.....which it is.

If you bring your old plug....they will be able to make sure that they don't give you one that is too long......or.....more importantly tell you if the threads on your plug are stripped......or if what is in the threads is the threads from your oil pan (which would call for the tapping of new threads in the pan.....either with a self tapping drain plug......or a tapping tool.)

[mundy5]

M14x1.25 vs M14x1.5

If wiswind is correct, then you have purchased the right size diameter but wrong threading. your threading is more fine that what is called for by ford. go back and get the correct threading on the bolt and you should be good to go.