Advice re: sump plug leak

Post by **Steve P** » 23 Jan 2008, 10:11

Hi Guys, sorry to trouble you with something quite trivial.

I did an oil change shortly after buying the van and have now replaced the sump plug and seal twice. The new plug I've just fitted from Just Kampers does fit better, but I am still getting an oil leak from here. Is this just something that happens?

Father in law has suggested trying some of that stuff that you put in the engine to stop oil leaks - has anyone used it?

As I say sorry to trouble you with this, but advice greatly received.
Regards

Steve

Post by **sevy** » 23 Jan 2008, 10:14

the best solution might be PTFE tape , ie plumbers wite tape or white hawk plumbing sealent , its brown pastey stuff doent go rock hard but stays putty like . Or drop sump and helicoil insert the thread

Post by **VWCamperfan** » 23 Jan 2008, 13:51

The stuff you put into engines to stop oil leaks is usually designed to soften hardened rubber and hence provide a tighter seal. It probably wont make any difference to the sump plug seal as this just a metal bolt and washer.

Ps. while I have used an oil additive to stop oil leaks, and I have to admit, it did work, I would be tempted not to put additives into the oil with these engines. They dont seem to like it and most additives tend to get stuck in the oil filter and prevent good oil circulation. Not good for your engine wear factor!

Post by **Westy.Club.Joker** » 23 Jan 2008, 16:15

PTFE tape on the plug threads, works 99 time sout of 100

Post by **jason k** » 23 Jan 2008, 16:42

you do have the copper washer fitted i take it...??

Post by **Steve P** » 23 Jan 2008, 18:26

jason k wrote:you do have the copper washer fitted i take it...??

Yes I have a copper washer fitted. Changed that too when I changed the plug.

Thanks everyone for your help. I'll try the PTFE tape first then.

Steve

Post by **sevy** » 23 Jan 2008, 20:54

PTFE and hawk white will cure it no probs

Post by **big red bus** » 23 Jan 2008, 21:42

or a smear of instant gasket works a treat.

Post by **Steve P** » 25 Jan 2008, 21:14

Thanks all for your help, today ive put ptfe tape and smeared hawk around the plug, will let you know the outcome of the test run!!

Post by **HarryMann** » 25 Jan 2008, 21:28

Yes I have a copper washer fitted. Changed that too when I changed the plug.

.. as wella s PTFE tapecan also try a Ford neoprene washer instead of copper washer - don't have to tighten the drain plug so mcuh with them.

Also ensure the spotface that washer seals against is not damaged and burred, re-dress it.

Post by **Steve P** » 26 Jan 2008, 18:06

I've tried the PTFE tape and putty for now and it seems to have done the trick. On closer inspection it really needs a helicoil.

Now just got to get the carbs sorted (twin solex) the bloke I bought it off of said that they needed balancing.

Thanks guys as always for your help, it is really appreciated.

Looking forward to meeting some of you at the shows this year. We're hoping to go to VanWest in May for our first show.

Steve

Post by **HarryMann** » 26 Jan 2008, 20:18

You could also go up a size in the thread - if you find a suitable sump plug first, just a slightly easier solution for the DIY'er

Post by **Steve P** » 26 Jan 2008, 21:27

Thanks Harry, when i first removed the plug something didnt feel right, it was all loose, on closer inspection the thread inside has been worn!!