First time I removed the drain plug from the HFCM in my '07 6.0L PSD it was very corroded. Threads were pitted. It was a mess. Bought a new one and on changing out filters this past weekend noticed that the new plug was beginning to degrade as well. Does anyone know if this is designed to be a sacrificial anode type of thing as the water at the low point drain will mix with the sulfur in the fuel to become what ever acid it turns into and eat the plug vs engine parts. I bought a brass after market plug but have stayed with the stock plugs just in case the brass doesn't act the same way.

 

There is an updated part from Ford that is also brass, its design makes for easier draining (less mess) and many folks have had stuck stock plugs, so I doubt Ford intended it to corrode and end up stuck in the housing. Here is the part number for the new valve: 6E7Z-9C082-A It also has a large knurled *** end so you can use just your fingers to drain and snug back up...

 

I am not aware of any sacrificial characteristic associated with the HFCM drain plug. I did have to replace my drain plug with an updated part that Diesel Dan mentioned in his post. Both of the plugs were brass.

Perhaps the real question is how often do you loosen the drain plug. If you aren't dong it a least once a year, if might corrode or otherwise be difficult to remove. Also, try a little vaseline on the threads. Are you using either a Ford or International plug? Good luck.

 

The Stock Original OEM plug is steel and therefore not a sacrificial anode.
Steel would be the wrong material to use.
Here is a handy chart.





Sean <BR>

6.0L Tech Folder

 

Hmm. I am going to have to crawl under my truck and check this drain plug now. LOL

 

The plug should be removed every oil change or at least once a year for the guys that park them for most of the time. By doing so you're checking and releasing any contamination that will cause issues. (Like rotted drain plugs)

 

MOST DEFINATELY!!!!! X2^^^^^^