Page 1 of 1
#1 Block drain
Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2022 10:40 am
by max-it-out
Just noticed there doesn`t seem to be a drain tap fitted to the block , but there is a nut in a similar position under the exhaust manifold which could be a drain plug . Also , can`t find any engine no. on the block . Car is a `68 , is this correct ? Thanks .

#2 Re: Block drain
Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2022 10:45 am
by rswaffie
Mark
The engine number should be stamped on the block above where the oil filter attaches (if the S1.5 is the same as my 3.8)

#3 Re: Block drain
Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2022 10:47 am
by mgcjag
Hi Mark........yes a drain bolt replaced the drain tap....not sure when......engine numbers on engine above the oil houseing then later changed to being on the egde of the block next to the dipstick where the bellhouseing mates to it....Steve
#4 Re: Block drain
Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2022 3:19 pm
by Philk
mgcjag wrote: ↑Thu Feb 10, 2022 10:47 am
Hi Mark........yes a drain bolt replaced the drain tap....not sure when......engine numbers on engine above the oil houseing then later changed to being on the egde of the block next to the dipstick where the bellhouseing mates to it....Steve
The drain tap was replaced with a "drain plug" (C31616) as per Service Bulletin B.69 (published in June 1969). Once you've identified your engine number, those quoted below should be of assistance

#5 Re: Block drain
Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2022 10:19 pm
by AshM
Is it worth fitting a drain tap? Any benefits of doing this?
Would value any views?
Thanks
Ash
#6 Re: Block drain
Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2022 11:41 pm
by abowie
AshM wrote: ↑Tue Feb 15, 2022 10:19 pm
Is it worth fitting a drain tap? Any benefits of doing this?
Would value any views?
Thanks
Ash
I personally don't like them. Anything that can fail and dump all of your coolant before you notice it is a bad thing IMO.
I replace them with plugs.
#7 Re: Block drain
Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2022 8:30 am
by mgcjag
Agree with Andrew.....a simple plug is best.....Steve
#8 Re: Block drain
Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2022 10:26 pm
by Jeremy
My new RadTec radiator came with a screw-in plug and I didn't bother refitting the original tap, pretty little thing though it was. The tap had a corroded and weakened spring, and (despite lapping the conical surfaces) I never got it to seal securely.
#9 Re: Block drain
Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2022 6:23 pm
by AshM
Thanks gents.
Wise words, as always.
Will leave my block plug exactly as-is then!
Cheers
Ash