Morris Minor Owners Club

Hello Everyone.

Now that i have the waterpump replaced etc (see heater not getting warm in other)

One of the core plugs is weeping possibly due to my 88'c thermostat and the fact the cooling system now has pressure at last.

The radiator core is rusty so i will need to replace that anyway.

What is the procedure with core plugs is it an easy fix.

James Stephenson

P.s its a 1969 1098 saloon

You should really get the old core plug out - clean up the hole - and bang in a new one ! However - if it's only 'weeping' slightly you can maybe live with it for a while - but do keep a close eye on it, and get the new spare in stock asap.

Basically you bash them in the centre to deform them, then bash near to edge to spin the plug in the hole and pull out the old plug. New plugs go in by gently tapping around the edge until they are flush with the block and then by using a suitable sized socket to sit them just under the surface of the block....

Hello.

thanks for the help i have ordered some core plugs.

Can i still safely use the 88'c thermostat until spring arrives as its freezing in the car at the moment.

I will also change the radiator when the weather warms up as well.

James

I use 88C thermostats all year round with no problems at all.

most likely the core plug has dies due to corrosion.
Antifreeze is needed all year round as it also includes corrosion inhibitor - otherwise you can get failed waterpumps, failed core plugs, failed radiators etc...