VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc 1941 Sealing Oil Plugs

I am changing fluids in my transmission and rear axle. Both plugs have had leaking issues at the plug. As I age I can only tighten the plug so far because of my strength. Is there a plumbers putty, etc. that could help with leakage? Seems that some of the products I have tried breakdown because of the oil.

Thanks, Mike

I've always used RTV Red high-temp silicon sealant/gasket maker on leaky or partly stripped plugs. Just enough on the threads near the head of the plug to stop the leak - don't want it squeezing into the oil pan or gear box. When you change the fluid, you'll need to remove the old sealant and reapply.

I split the drain plug on my Truck's magnesium transfer case by using teflon tape. I'm careful but the force produced on a tapered plug is surprising. I cracked the entire threaded portion and another 1/4" of the case.

I did some research and found that for all drain plugs, an ANAEROBIC sealant is recommended as it seals in the absence of air. I bought some and it worked great. It sealed really well in the crack and in the threads but is also easily removed. It stays softish on the exterior where it gets air but cures between the threads and where oil seals off the air from contacting it. I will use it on every plug from this point on.

You don't need or want to torque it hard, just lightly snug it since it lubricates the threads.

I used: Permatex Thread Sealant 80634 with PTFE. Bought it at Napa.

Mike.

There are so many places that a 41 will leak that I don't do anything to try and stop them. It can't be done anyway. Trying is like a cat chasing its tail. Just let it leak. Can't stop it so don't even try. It's a design thing. You know.

If you insist,however, then try the stuff that has been recommended. That teflon sounds promising as well as others. Also, use a longer adjustable wrench.

Good luck but remember when it has driven you nuts and you're sitting there on the funny farm, .just smiling at everthing that enters your mind or is said to you, that I told you so. Be alert supper may consist of fried chicken, corn on the cob, fried squash, pole beans, boiled potatoes, candied yams and what all. Even fresh baked rolls. Something to look forward to each and every day just because you worried yourself crazy over a oil leak on a 41 Chevrolet. Glooory!

Best and you're welcome for my thoughts in trying to save you from Bingo and knitting classes. You know.

Charlie

BTW: The leak at the transmission helps lubricate the underside of the floorpans thus preventing rust. The differential leak will help in identifying dips and bumps in the road.

BTW2: Sorry. I couldn't help myself.

The sealant Tim is talking about is part #80632 (4 oz. or 80631 for 1 oz tube) in the U. S.. I just changed my transmission fluid last week because for some reason the plug was leaking. Using the same, so far no leaks.

Thanks Russell.

I might change my mind yet.

Best,

Charlie

I have used a alloy washer with a captured o ring on stubborn leakers. On some cars and motorcycles they were oe.

Dave