Do it again! I changed out the front freeze plug when I replaced the radiator and did the KDP. Now I have a coolant leak at the left front corner of the oil pan. Traced it to that freeze plug after pulling the fan and bearing mount. How deep is that plug supposed to be set in the block? I set it flush. I read about using Permatex 1, 2 or silicone. I used 'cone since that's what I had. By the time I got it set in position there wasn't much 'cone on it from flipping back and forth and handling it a bunch. There's got to be a better way. Can the plug I have be reused, just drive it deeper (how deep?), or get a new one?
Thanks

 

I am pretty sure Cummins Service Manual recommends RED Loc Tite and not RTV. I installed just passed flush with no problems.

I wouldn't reuse them, one and done.

 

That's what I always did...I usually used the old fashioned Permatex in the brush can...I never had a comeback......Ben

 

I have seen rubber expanding plugs used. I haven't used one myself and it's been so long since I installed a core plug that I can't remember how I did it. I would think the rubber expanding plug would work well.

Edwin

 

The rubber plugs made money for me...They got installed by someone else, then the vehicle came to me to get a steel plug installed, and fixed the leak...Nasty work, but money is money......Ben

 

Thanks for the replies. Dealer had a couple plugs, now to install. How to you get the cotton pickin thing to go in evenly? Not much swing room with the radiator installed!

 

I had a tool with an angled handle and interchangeable different sized drivers that made some of them a little easier...I think Lisle made it......Ben