I was reading Ugly Duckling's post about DIY oil changes, which I do because I don't trust anyone else to do it. Someone mentioned these copper washers that go between the oil pan and the drain plug. I don't have those. I've never had those. I didn't even know I needed those. Could this be why I have had such terrible times loosening the drain plug?

What are these mystical copper washers of which you speak, and where can I get my hands on some (I have a sneaking suspicion that if I mention the word Volvo to any auto-parts store in my town, I'll be shot with a grease gun)? While I'm at it, where can I get a new drain plug (all the wrenching has finally started to round off the corners).

WRT to the ATF change -- my driveway just stayed too muddy to have another "fun with jackpoints" incident, so took the car and the various jack paraphernalia to the City Park (they generally frown on that, but I know one of the groundskeepers) one early, early Sunday morning. Took some doing, but I got the drain and fill plugs off (the drain plug took a breaker bar). The fluid was definitely low, but not dry. It was also definitely dirty and black (but not quite scorched), and thankfully, it had no crud in it. So I filled (used Havoline Type F, since oddly enough, that's about all I could get except Wal-Mart brand Super Tech, which I refuse to put anywhere near my car) and most of the noises have smoothed out. So far I haven't spotted any leaks, but it's only been a day and it's been raining. If it ever quits raining, I'll check the fluid again.

Thanks for all the help you all gave me on the clutch/tranny olympics. I couldn't have done it without you!

Maggie