Need new block drain plugs for 5.0 GL PEFS

Rupp

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Jul 15, 2007
Messages
112
Guys,
I need new block drain plugs for my 5.0 GL PEFS. I purchase 1/4 npt (I think this is what I bought) and they thread in correctly but leak like a sieve. I put one of the worn out originals back in and it doesn't leak. So I'm looking for these again.
 

Bondo

Moderator
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Apr 17, 2002
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71,103
Guys,
I need new block drain plugs for my 5.0 GL PEFS. I purchase 1/4 npt (I think this is what I bought) and they thread in correctly but leak like a sieve. I put one of the worn out originals back in and it doesn't leak. So I'm looking for these again.
Ayuh,..... Put a dab of sealant on the threads to stop the leak,.....
I use permatex liquid non-hardening myself,.....
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Jul 23, 2011
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50,313
May need to chase the block threads. If using a tap from local hardware store, you need to grind the lead off it as it will hit the cylinder before the threads clean up

Sealant works

New plug may have iffy threads. Look to tool chatter marks
 

Rupp

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jul 15, 2007
Messages
112
I've chased the threads and they are clean as can be. I tried using the white plumbing tape and that didn't help at all. It's very confusing as I lined up the original and new and they look identical except the original has a smaller hole in the middle of the plug which should matter but it's the only difference.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
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Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,103
I've chased the threads and they are clean as can be. I tried using the white plumbing tape and that didn't help at all. It's very confusing as I lined up the original and new and they look identical except the original has a smaller hole in the middle of the plug which should matter but it's the only difference.
Ayuh,...... Donno what yer problem is, but the drain holes in the block, are in fact, 1/4" pipe thread,.....
 

bajaman123

Seaman
Joined
May 6, 2009
Messages
64
are you SURE they are 1/4" pipe thread? I ask because I know Mercruiser is NOT, it is 1/2-13 standard thread...the plugs have a 'flat' on the face and use a rubber washer...
 

ESGWheel

Chief Petty Officer
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Aug 29, 2015
Messages
588
Don’t be shy about using a lot of sealants and in combination. Suggest do this: first warp the plug with the sealing thread cord (link), then take two turns on the Teflon tape and then smear the entire thing with a sealant like Megaloc (link). Keep tightening until it feels fully seated and give it another 1/8 turn. It will not leak.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
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Jul 23, 2011
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50,313
The block is 1/4 npt

Mercruiser uses adapters to use their blue plastic junk fittings
 

ESGWheel

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 29, 2015
Messages
588
Oh, if you are using plastic, don’t. IMO use brass for both the adaptor (if needed) and plug. Link and link
 
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