Core plug

[Seth]

One of the core plugs on the Hillman's engine has started weeping, fortunately in an easily accessible position. I might have done one once on a Triumph lump but it was a long time ago and I can't remember. Shall I just knock the new one in dry or maybe put a smear of Hylomar round it first?

[RetroMat]

I usually paint them both sides with some cylinder black. Painting may or may not help future corrosion but every little helps! then a bit of well-seal round the edge.

edit: the best one was on my neighbours Pug406, a 2p coin araldited over the weeping core plug ;D

[akku]

I've always done them dry. That doesn't prove its right, but they've not weeped again for me.

Also you can get brass core plugs in various sizes. No rust on brass. Again, I've never used them. I've used some plated steel ones which were brassy looking though LOL

[stealthstylz]

I've done them dry and with sealer in the past, depends if i've got the sealer to hand. Never had a problem with one leaking afterwards.

Matt

[Seth]

OK, thanks. I may just put a wide of hylomar on it - might help it slide in anyhow. I have some of the yellow plated steel ones so that's what I'll be using

[Mystery Machine]

I've only done them twice, but dry both times. My assumption was that the metal is originally pressed oversize and then compresses as it fits into the core, so should seal as it goes (as long as it's tapped in evenly)

Not had any leaks.

I didn't even think to use sealer, but as Matt says, if you have some to hand then it can't do any harm?

[Diabolu]

Mark Evans on the 'A so-and-so is born' series, knocked in the core plugs on the Rover V8 engine dry. Just 3, 9, 12, 6 them in. To get them out, you need to deform the centre with a sharp tap in the middle then they'll rotate out if you drift one edge.

[Seth]

Thanks for all the tips. Thought I'd make use of the light evening and gave this a go a little earlier. Hitting a punch around the centre of the old pushed it all in and made a big split where it had gone thin. Got it moving inward on the opposite side so cold then lever it out.

Smear of hylomar on the new one and knocked it in with the help of a socket and short extension suitable punch tool. Seems leak free so far after re-filling and getting the engine warmed up.

[stealthstylz]

A socket is a great way to get them in. I once did one at the side of the M1 using a piece of tree sawn off with a penkife and a jack handle and it's still going strong haha.

Matt

[alan1rac]

most core plugs go in the centre so if you get caught short and have a leak knock a pionted piece of wood into the plug it wiil stop the leak and get you home [an old trick done by rac patrols].

[murran]

usualy put hylomar round them to be honest. getting them in straight is key tho.