This can't be this difficult!
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
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From: AZ
This can't be this difficult!
I'm installing a bypass coolant filter system today...got everything installed other than the removal of the 3/8" plug on the water pump (just below the thermostat on the right as I look at it). It looks like a 3/8" plug and it looks like I ought to be able to just tap a small 3/8" breaker bar into it and turn it. I cannot get the end of the breaker into it...tried short extension, tried 3/8" drive ratchet...nothing. I am almost at the point where I begin grinding down a short (2") 3/8" extension until it fits. Please, tell this old geezer what I can't see for myself. Is it a 3/8"? I even tried a 3/8" allen wrench thinking I just can't see well enough anymore. Any help would be appreciated mucho 
(my Ray Charles smiley)!
(my Ray Charles smiley)!
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
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From: AZ
.
Thread Starter
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 4,243
Likes: 16
From: AZ
!
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,768
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From: Central Alabama
I just put on an Airtex water pump a few months ago, I used a 5/16 allen socket (3/8s drive)to remove the plug. I'm pretty sure I bought the 5/16 allen socket when I did my coolant filter on my OEM pump. Hope this helps you out Neil.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 11,892
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From: Middle Tennessee
Have a beer or three Neal. 
It will be there in the AM. I too need glasses to see a lot of crap now.
It will be there in the AM. I too need glasses to see a lot of crap now.
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Freshman User
Joined: Jun 2006
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Do what I have done...take a digital picture.
Hey,
Sounds like my life story on mechanical things. My wife wonders why I hesitate to start some jobs, then I remind her of ALL the past jobs when Murphy needed a laugh. At my expense, of course.
What I do if I can't see it is take a digital pic and see what the HECK is going on. Then I know. Just put it on macro (on Sony that means make sure the flower is visible on the view screen) and see what 's up.
Any who, that is how I do one small, little trick.
Donnie
Sounds like my life story on mechanical things. My wife wonders why I hesitate to start some jobs, then I remind her of ALL the past jobs when Murphy needed a laugh. At my expense, of course.
What I do if I can't see it is take a digital pic and see what the HECK is going on. Then I know. Just put it on macro (on Sony that means make sure the flower is visible on the view screen) and see what 's up.
Any who, that is how I do one small, little trick.
Donnie
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 11,892
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From: Middle Tennessee
Great post Donnie. Those digital cameras can blow it up on the screen for sure. I'm going to rep ya for that.
Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,250
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I remember using an allen driver on an extension to get that plug out when I installed my water temp gauge. I do not remember the size off hand, but I think Chris is right about it being 5/16.
Drink a beer, Bud. It will be there tomorrow and your muscles will be well rested.
Drink a beer, Bud. It will be there tomorrow and your muscles will be well rested.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,298
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From: Damon (South East Texas)
My original w/p had a 5/16" internal square drive plug. I have a Snap On set of sockets for these type plugs. You can grind down the threads of a 3/8" bolt into a square (or use 5/16" square stock) and then turn out the plug with wrench or socket.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
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From: AZ
...5/16" square plug. I ground down a 3/8" bolt with a 3/4" head and it came out like butter. If anyone needs a 5/16"" water pump plug removal tool, just give me a shout. Thanks everyone for the help and advice...what a country (and forum!!!)