my son has a 94 ranger xlt 4x4 with the 4.0. the oil pan drain plug head was chewed up, so I picked up a new one today from the local ford dealer. Afterwards I noticed it came with a plastic washer, but when we've changed his oil in the past, there is no washer of any type on the drain plug. Question is, should there be a washer, and if so, is a plastic one used (I've never ever seen a plastic washer on a drain plug).

Thanks

hmmm...try it without the washer. if it works then just toss it away.

dont throw the washer away ... would you put an engine together without gaskets ? .... the washer is a gasket

All the plastic washer is for is a gasket for the drain plug. First try the plug without the gasket and if it drips the slightest oil put the washer in. You'll be suprised that it works.