Radiator drain plug won't tighten?

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Apr 30, 2010 | 11:07 PM

Whitecloud

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Radiator drain plug won't tighten?

I drained the fluid on my 88 and pulled the plug out. When I went to put it back in it just clicks but won't tighten. What am I doing wrong or what should I do?

May 1, 2010 | 12:30 AM

samsonb

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You can replace the plug from Autozone or the dealer. That would be the best thing. You have to pull the piece from the radiator and replace it with the new one. Not sure how to get the old one out. I guess with a pick.

May 1, 2010 | 03:09 AM

Whitecloud

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I can take the drain plug in and out, it just won't tighten.

May 1, 2010 | 03:12 AM

Weav's Vet

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From: Sandhills of North Carolina

Quote:

Originally Posted by Whitecloud

I can take the drain plug in and out, it just won't tighten.

Is it plastic? Probably stripped a thread on it. You can try some Teflon tape as a quick fix until you can pick one up.

May 1, 2010 | 07:10 AM

floridamale

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From: Vero Beach Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by Weav's Vet

Is it plastic? Probably stripped a thread on it. You can try some Teflon tape as a quick fix until you can pick one up.

I’m not sure that fix will hold under pressure seeing as the plug is bad to start with.

May 1, 2010 | 07:15 AM

Weav's Vet

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From: Sandhills of North Carolina

Quote:

Originally Posted by floridamale

I’m not sure that fix will hold under pressure seeing as the plug is bad to start with.

It's just quick fix until he can get a plug that fits. I didn't mean to make it sound like a permanent fix. Most of the highest pressure is at the top of a radiator.