MG MGB and MGB GT Tech Talk
Have slight leak from core plug behind oil filter should I remove and replace? How is it best to remove it? Any advice I have read suggests striking domed centre to trap plug.However the replacement plug I have is flat with a flange 18v engine Any advice appreciated.
I've always let the machine shop do that.
but I've always also felt that all the plugs are subject to the same conditions simultaneously and if one fails the others are about to do so. There are also plugs behind the engine back plate that you can only get to with the engine out (and where leaks would be impossible to find without other problems...maybe water weeping down into the pan?)
Take a hammer and punch and turn the plug sides ways in the hole. Grab it with a pair of pliers and pull it out. If it goes inside the engine it will not go far and you can still get it with pliers.
Installing: Get a socket that fits just in side the flange and drive it in with a hammer. I usually put some sort of sealer around the edge before driving it back in. I use silcone gasket sealer.
As Mac said, other plugs may start to leack soon.
Good Luck
Steve
Thank's Steve, appreciate advice. Can you only drive a B wondering what next?
lennym Wrote:
Best way to remove them is take a chisel and make slot in them right in the center and then pry them out with a screwdriver. Then clean the ledge real good, scrap all the crud from this area. A MGB freeze/core plug look like a wok or a bowl, what you are describing is not correct, I install with epoxy, JB weld is as good as any, install with bowl facing out, then take two ball peen hammers, take one with the ball placed on the center of the plug, hit the hammer against the plug with the second hammer will make a dimple in the center of the plug and spread it tight. Not a hard job to do, no need to let a machinst do it, easy as pie.
What about freezing it with a can of compressed air flipped up side down? Might help in getting it out.
Core plug supplied by long established MG parts supplier! Existing plugs have no dimples all appear as one I have flat faced. Plug has flange approx 3/8ths deep.Thanks for advice.
Carry an expandable one just in case for emergency remove radiator cap to get home takes the pressure off