Head in hands

[lyons]

My 3.8 engine never had a head, however I have seen a 7F (420) head locally that would fit as it is a straight port type - BUT - it is missing the 2 core plugs with hex inset that blank the casting? holes part number C11530 under the 3 part inlet manifolds.

Phoning around the usuals and further I have drawn a blank. Does anyone know where these can be got.

Another possibility is that someone out there has one of these plugs already removed and would forward to me so that I can make them as the head is OK otherwise.

Perhaps there is another way round this by machining a lip in the head to allow the use of standard engine block type core plugs. Any comments on this appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

[steve3.8]

Try Chesman Engineering they will be able to help .

[kingzetts]

I had this issue with the 'military' head I recently fitted. I had my machine shop clean up the casting holes and fit regular core plugs - I think they charged about £70 all in.

[Hugo]

Are these screw-in plugs? If so I would try a commercial hydraulic hose shop - Pirtek for example. They will keep all manner of fittings.

[lyons]

Thanks for the heads up ! about trying hydraulic shop.

They helped before sourcing a BSP plug on the underside of the inlet manifold.

Next question is anyone any idea what the thread size is, the hole measures 34mm edge to edge.

Alternative may be to find a large plug and tap to suit.

[iani]

Might be worth speaking with Crosthwaite and Gardiner, they sell a couple of D type threaded core plugs, they might be the right size.

Ian

http://www.crosthwaiteandgardiner.com/~ ... es_lwe.pdf

[Hugo]

That might equate to 1 and 5/16" or more likely 1 and 3/8" UNF? Or BSP of course? You can't get a thread gauge in there I suppose & get the TPI?