Phil:
Since this is in an MGA, I'm going to suggest not using the original
type core plug. It is going to be difficult to get a good enough smack
to seat the core plug effectively. Little dings are not going to expand
the plug correctly and having it pop out is not a happy time.
There are aftermarket expandable copper plugs generally available from
vendors of Dorman products. These have an acorn nut in the center which
pulls operates a threaded wedge to expand the copper plug. Painless and
so far I have not run into anyone who has had a problem with them.
I keep a couple of them in my race trailer and have given away a number
of them to MG racers who have lost plugs at the track. I found out
about them when the rear plug in my race car blew out on an inaugural
high speed test run down the freeway. Luckily the engine adapter plate
had been modified for access, and I was able to blip the car to an auto
parts place and replace the plug in the parking lot saving a sad
telephone call and tow home.
Kelvin Dodd
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-mgs@autox.team.net [mailto:owner-mgs@autox.team.net] On
Behalf
> Of Phil Bates
> Sent: Sunday, September 11, 2005 4:50 PM
> To: MG List
> Subject: Freeze/core plug replacement
>
> I had a leaking core plug. I've since removed it, and have a
> replacement plug available for it. What is the best way to expand
these
> plugs. This in in an MGA, and the engine is in the car - so I have
> limited space for swinging a hammer. I've heard that I should use a
> socket to hit it, and one that is as close to the diameter of the hole
> as possible so that I don't deform the plug - does that sound right?/
>
> Phil Bates
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