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Freeze Plugs… how do you folks do it?


wegweiser

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With the recent post regarding a potential hard-to-reach freeze plug failure, I figured I'd ask how you builders prefer to install them, on a fresh engine block.

 

My options:

 

a ) bone dry. No sealant of any kind (my gut says "no")

 

b ) thin layer of brushed on "aircraft gasket liquid" on edge, before install

 

c ) RTV type sealant (thicker than above sealant - think "right stuff" or other gasket maker goo)

 

I'm leaning toward option "b"…. but since replacing freeze plugs "in situ" lacks appeal, I want to make sure I use a tried and true method that WORKS the first time.

 

So…. what do you guys and gals use / do?

 

Thanks!

Paul Wegweiser

Wegweiser Classic BMW Services

Nationwide vehicle transport available

NEW WEBSITE! www.zenwrench.com

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In theory you can do it bone dry but that assumes that the opening is scrupulously clean and complete (no nicks or chunks missing from the sealing diameter) and the plug can be seated properly without distortion. Kind of what you might expect from a new block.

Anything but a new block needs the assistance of a sealant, Permatex No1 is what I have used. I have installed them dry as well and never had a leak but I certainly feel better about those with a thin scrape of something brushed on.

rtheriaque wrote:

Carbs: They're necessary and barely controlled fuel leaks that sometimes match the air passing through them.

My build blog:http://www.bmw2002faq.com/blog/163-simeons-blog/

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Permatex ultra black RTV, every time.  

 

Partly for the sealing, but

it also lets them slide in a little easier,

and makes it less likely that I'll damage one 

by going for the #10 hammer.

 

t

"I learn best through painful, expensive experience, so I feel like I've gotten my money's worth." MattL

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I use Permatex #2 aviation sealer it's the stuff in the tooth paste tube, Just run a bead right around the outside chamfer of the plug and drive it in with a socket that just fits the inside of the plug never had one leek on any type of engine. My tube is running pretty low now but I've had it for about 40 years as this is its only use.

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If everybody in the room is thinking the same thing, then someone is not thinking.

 

George S Patton 

Planning the Normandy Break out 1944

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Thanks for the input, folks!

 

It will be several weeks / months til I'm ready to install them, but I'll let you know what works / doesn't work, on mine!

Paul Wegweiser

Wegweiser Classic BMW Services

Nationwide vehicle transport available

NEW WEBSITE! www.zenwrench.com

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