Reproduction Parts for 1916-1964 Chevrolet Passenger Cars & 1918-1987 Chevrolet & GMC Trucks



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#190283 12/02/10 04:35 PM
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Oil Can Mechanic
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What do you folks use to seal the oil pan drain plug?
I have a '35 Master and I've used a copper gasket and also tried a newer style nylon/neoprene one from NAPA and the plug continues to leak. Should I try thread sealant and a gasket?

The leak isn't huge, but I have enough other sources of oil leaks and I'm trying to seal things as I can.

Suggestions?

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I always put a little Mopar gasket sealer on the threads as I worked for Chrysler.lol I'm wondering if there is a small crack there maybe in the thread area, or the area where the plug sits is not even.
Neil


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Hall Monitor
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You might try plain old pipe dope. It won't glue the plug in like some sealers do and it's cheap.


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1938 HB Business Coupe
1953 210 Sedan
Tiny #190290 12/02/10 06:07 PM
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I agree with Tiny, don't use something that dries. The sealer I use is sticky but never hardens and the plug removes the same as without it but no oil will work down the thread.
Neil


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Thanks for ideas on thread sealant. What gasket do you find to be the best? Copper? Other?

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Mine just has the copper washer.


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Tiny #190356 12/03/10 11:03 AM
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I worked for Chrysler for 36 years and what surprised me was how tight some mechanics tightened the plug, and in my opinion totally unnecessary. We used to use a gasket that had asbestos in it I think and it would compress easily, then went to what looked like nylon and they were not as good. Now they have a plug with a rubber?? seal on it that seals well but if it is tightened too much is very difficult to remove, often taking thread with it.I think any are reasonably good as long as they are in good shape and not overtightened. A mechanic friend was going to a wedding some distance away and needed an oil change on his Chev pickup,so took it to a garage nearby so he wouldn't get his clothes dirty. The oil change fellow used an impact gun on it and broke the nut off the inside of the pan.So my friend had to go and change his clothes, remove the oil pan and weld a nut on it. Unbelievable, and the same thing applies to spin-on oil filters. Don't over tighten.
Neil


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So the moral of this sad tale is...don't get married?

Thanks to all for the tips.

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I have also seen spark plugs fitted into a alloy head with a rattle gun. I wont go near that garage again.
Tony


1938 1/2 ton Hope to drive it before I retire

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