rear core plug replacement "in situ"

[PierreW]

How to replace the rear core plug of the engine ? Mine has been ejected two days ago big scare and cloud of steam....
is this possible without the great engine/gearbox "extraction" ?
Pierre

[DWW]

I had one of those eject a while ago, it was the last one on the exhaust manifold side closest to the firewall, like you much steam and big scare, luckily I was close to home and after some cool off time managed to limp home. I managed to instal a new one in situ although it was not that straight forward as there is limited room and had to use a socket extension to apply between the core plug and hammer. I doubt it can be done in situ unless someone know better.

[PierreW]

mine is the plug situated at the rear end of the engine parallel to the firewall ...so at the worst place with very little access....

[mgcjag]

Hi....best option .ay be to llook at the expanding type of core plug with a center bolt to expand it..Steve

[DWW]

Bloody good idea, first time I hear of it.....but will the rubber in it last?

[mgcjag]

Yes if you use Dorman plugs..also search Dorman copper expanding plugs..Steve https://www.mgaguru.com/mgtech/cooling/cool_105a.htm

[PierreW]

Yes if you use Dorman plugs..also search Dorman copper expanding plugs..Steve https://www.mgaguru.com/mgtech/cooling/cool_105a.htm

Very, very, very interesting , thank you Steve :-)

[wagstefan]

Dorman 568-011 - had to do the same. Take care when ordering over ebay.. Some selling one for the price of five.

Angus saved my life in that regard and gave me that hint.

But don't complain about spending 2 hours of trying to get bolts back in place for the rear engine/gearbox support bracket. I almost lost my mind....

Good luck!

[PierreW]

@ wagstefan
I ordered 5 in the US 3 days ago Thanks

[david muir]

Hi,
Are these Copper plugs available in UK?

Dave

[PierreW]

I ordered mine on amazon Us because I didn't find them nowhere else...

[rfs1957]

Hey Pierre,

If you get 5 and don’t need them all, would you sell me one perhaps ?

Sounds like a good thing to have in the tool-kit.

Thanks.

[david muir]

is the plug on the rear of the block 1" in diameter ( as opposed to 1 5/8 " at sides)?
Thanks

[Allrand]

No it's the same size. There's a smaller one on the inlet side near to the rear corner & higher than the others.