screw in plugs
Racer
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 351
Likes: 1
From: Marysville OH
When we built the 385 stroker for the Baja we went that route, had the machine shop thread the block and when we picked up the block and rotating assembly they had provided the plugs. No idea where they got them, but I could call Fowler's Monday and ask if you need a source.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2,753
Likes: 14
From: backwoods upstate ny
we did that back/day when 'endurance racing' big blocks in c3's...those were prone to loosing core plugs in side holes near front...threading the block was a pita as the block was too thin around the core hole to get proper thread depth, and taps had be modded (ground shorter) to miss cylinder jackets beyond core hole...we got brass "clean out plugs" from a local "plumbing supply" house (not your average 'hardware store')...the threaded plugs DO get 'loose' and need to be checked from time to time.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 686
Likes: 4
From: Austin Texas
Thanks guys. I had a freeze plug pop out once and it was a b*tch to replace. Screwing in a loose one would be a he77 of a lot easier. Plus I believe you get better wall rigidity with a solid plug in those holes.
I'm going to tap and plug the oil gallery holes as well.
I'm going to tap and plug the oil gallery holes as well.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 686
Likes: 4
From: Austin Texas
When we built the 385 stroker for the Baja we went that route, had the machine shop thread the block and when we picked up the block and rotating assembly they had provided the plugs. No idea where they got them, but I could call Fowler's Monday and ask if you need a source.
thanks....
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 686
Likes: 4
From: Austin Texas
Yeah back in the day....
Some of the old Ford X blocks came with them from the factory, 406, 427. I was glad to see chevy adopted the cam thrust plate into the LT1. I think it needs a little oil-passage slot machined into it though.
Some of the old Ford X blocks came with them from the factory, 406, 427. I was glad to see chevy adopted the cam thrust plate into the LT1. I think it needs a little oil-passage slot machined into it though.
Racer
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 351
Likes: 1
From: Marysville OH
We did tap the oil galley plugs.
Here is a thought if you are concerned about losing a core plug and don't wanna tap. You can use regular core plugs, but pin them in with allen screws. Just intall core plugs, drill and tap at an angle at the juncture of the plug and block, and locktite allen set screws in. I have done that before.
We went the threaded core plug route for a couple reasons, mainly concern over a plug loosening in a marine enviorment. It's a vasty different scenario than anything with wheels. It's no big deal for that engine to run WOT for 30-45 minutes...it pays to have everything bullet proof.
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Racer
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 351
Likes: 1
From: Marysville OH
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 686
Likes: 4
From: Austin Texas
Just as I'm neither "democrat" nor "republican" (both sides of the same counterfeit coin), I'm also neither Ford nor Chevy, but a motor enthusiast - each had/have some good and bad points. Borrow from one and give to the other, when possible. Just like in politics - eek. I prefer chevies mostly because the availability and relatively low cost of parts and knowledge base of experience. Plus, the vette is worth my time in wrenching. So very lightweight !! One neg is is the independent rear suspension - at some point one would need to go to solid rear axle. but until then ....
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2,753
Likes: 14
From: backwoods upstate ny
scribe the edge of the oem 'tin' plug prior to removal...center punch 4-6 spots on your 'scribe line' around the cam hole and drill 3/16'' dia shallow holes...install new 'tin' plug and then use small 'pin drift' to 'punch' edges of new plug into new shallow holes...pray that you are not the 'next guy' that wants to remove the plug.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2,753
Likes: 14
From: backwoods upstate ny