Oil Temp sensor into Miata oil pan - drill tap or weld a bung?

Engine is apart. Now's the time to install an oil temp sensor (or is it sender?) into the Miata's aluminum oil pan.

Should I just drill and tap the pan for the 1/8" NPT sensor or drill and weld a bung into the side of the pan?

Which approach is better and why? Is one approach more prone to leaking?

Thanks.

Unless its 1/4"+ thick where you want it, I'd bung it, especially if you already have the pan off.

Agreed. Most oil pans are too thin. If you can't find a spot thick enough to drill and tap, it needs a bung. Properly done, it won't leak.

Thanks. Ordered the bung from good ole' Pegasus.

Opposing view: drilling and tapping will work. It only has to be strong enough to support the sensor. We've been drilling and tapping the pans for years for turbo oil returns and I don't think I've ever heard of one failing. That cast aluminum is relatively thick.

Alternately, you could drill and tap the drain plug. Makes for a super-easy install but if you bottom out the pan you'll remove the wiring. Of course, you shouldn't be using your oil pan for a skid plate...