Chuck wrote:
> When I try this using the plug, I always end up with an arm full of oil, and
> usually end up dropping the plug.

I agree, it also keeps you from getting underneath the car, a place I
don't like to be no matter how well supported the car is. I have spent a
lot of hours under there and it just gets less comfortable as time rolls on.
Oh, the joy of a real lift! Every home garage should come standard with
one. ;-)

I was just pointing out that when I started reading about miatas, there
seemed to be a near-fanatical response to any oil change question that
said your miata would blow up, vaporize, go into a time warp or whatever
if a new crush ring was not used.
After talking to a trusted friend who assured me that this was pure BS
and that he had used the same drain plug ring through at least 20 oil
changes, I gave it a try.
Like it was pointed out by another poster, there is no real reason not
to use a new one, many vendors tape one onto the filter box, but there
really isn't a reason to use it either that I can see.
I have about 30 of them in my toolbox if anyone thinks that I am wrong
and needs one for free. I think that I have a lifetime supply. :-)

Pat