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My engine, 5.0l, sprung a leak at the rear most core plug (frost plug) on the right side, right above the starter. The only 1 1/2" core plug I could find in town is a deep one and I believe what is typically installed in this location is a shallow plug. Can I use a deep plug in place of a shallow plug? I would expect to leave the excess depth outside the block, not set it flush like you normally would. OK, or big problem?
The deep core plugs are MUCH easier to install, just don't need to install them at full depth. Place red lock-tite on O.D. on core plug prior to installation, I drive them in so they are flush with block not flush with recess in block(this keeps them square and not fully driven in). Try to get brass ones if possible, while starter is out, you may want to look at replacing the next one forward as well, may save some "down the road" aggravation. Hope this helps.
The deep core plugs are MUCH easier to install, just don't need to install them at full depth. Place red lock-tite on O.D. on core plug prior to installation, I drive them in so they are flush with block not flush with recess in block(this keeps them square and not fully driven in). Try to get brass ones if possible, while starter is out, you may want to look at replacing the next one forward as well, may save some "down the road" aggravation. Hope this helps.
Great help, Thanks! I hope to get into it this weekend.
My engine, 5.0l, sprung a leak at the rear most core plug (frost plug) on the right side, right above the starter. The only 1 1/2" core plug I could find in town is a deep one and I believe what is typically installed in this location is a shallow plug. Can I use a deep plug in place of a shallow plug? I would expect to leave the excess depth outside the block, not set it flush like you normally would. OK, or big problem?
My previous 5.0 used 1" plugs. Are you sure yours are 1 1/2"?
My previous 5.0 used 1" plugs. Are you sure yours are 1 1/2"?
Yes, I'm sure. All small blocks used the 1 1/2" core plugs on the side of the block from the 289 on up. There are some smaller gallery plugs, but I think they are smaller than 1".
I had some good news when I got under the truck and got the starter out of the way. The problem was with the block heater that was installed in the rear core plug hole. A new block heater is easier to install in this case, than driving in a new core plug. The clamp wings had broken and the o-ring was trashed. I don't know how it got like that, but better now than at 40 below when I need the heater.
