W-22 Radiator coolant drain plug

[awichman]

Max-about 3 weeks ago I mentioned that the radiator drain plug on my W-22 came out while I was changing the antifreeze and didn't seem to "snap" back into place...I drove over 1,000 miles last week with no leaks and the plug remained in place so perhaps its not a disaster if the plug comes out while changing the anti freeze, or I'm just very lucky. Thanks for your input with my previous questions on this matter. awichman

[jwd53]

I have a w20 v8. I looked under the radiator to drain it and found a drain plug like no other. It is plastic and has a solid piece grip area. I turned it left a quarter turn and met resistance so I stopped. I looked in my owners manuel and it doesn't address how to drain the radiator other than to say to do it. So I read the previous threads threads and am inclined to just take off the bottom hose. However I'd like to know what the correct procedure is to use the petcock valve (as i used to call them)

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jwd53 So I read the previous threads threads and am inclined to just take off the bottom hose. However I'd like to know what the correct procedure is to use the petcock valve (as i used to call them)

jwd53, Removing the bottom hose appears to be the most expedient method of draining the coolant out of the 8.1L.

The petcock that you are referring to is a plug and it does come out however some people will skirt around it. Good luck with your project and there is more information if your search for "burping" as well!

[darbyjudy]

I am with you on leaving it alone if it looks that good. Unless you use distilled water to flush and replace I think you will do more damage than good.

[baloo]

Quote:

Originally Posted by awichman Max-about 3 weeks ago I mentioned that the radiator drain plug on my W-22 came out while I was changing the antifreeze and didn't seem to "snap" back into place...I drove over 1,000 miles last week with no leaks and the plug remained in place . awichman

I know this thread is several years old, but, of course, I'm new and didn't read this until too late. I pulled out my nylon drain plug from the bottom of my W22 chassis (02 Gulfstream). The plug has the 1/8" square drive, an O-ring, plus a short metal stud in the side.

I haven't tried to re-insert it (bad weather outside), but I'm already thinking of a worst case scenario.

Has anyone tried any other methods to plug up the drain hole once the plug has been removed? Anyone tried a brass plug?

[M&EM]

Quote:

Originally Posted by baloo I know this thread is several years old, but, of course, I'm new and didn't read this until too late. I pulled out my nylon drain plug from the bottom of my W22 chassis (02 Gulfstream). The plug has the 1/8" square drive, an O-ring, plus a short metal stud in the side. I haven't tried to re-insert it (bad weather outside), but I'm already thinking of a worst case scenario. Has anyone tried any other methods to plug up the drain hole once the plug has been removed? Anyone tried a brass plug?

I found a replacement drain cock at Napa, part number 605-1371. It fit perfectly as a replacement for the original.

Why are you thinking the worst?? If the stud and O ring are in place, it should go back in ok.

Marty

[baloo]

Marty,
Thanks. Since I didn't get way up there with a good light to eyeball the situation, I worried that the stud part might have ripped or scored the outlet when I forced it out, resulting in damage. I don't think my plug is damaged, but rather the "socket" is damaged. I didn't see anyone mention the metal stud, so I thought it might be a slightly different model. I'll try to attach a picture of the plug.

Since it required force to pull it out, and it did not screw out, it just takes an equal or greater force to push it in?

This RV forum is outstanding!

[M&EM]

That stud seems to follows a groove in the radiator fitting. I believe it goes straight in a little, than follows a spiral path that drives it in as you turn it clock wise and holds it in place. Try a little silicone grease on the pin and O ring.

[baloo]

OK, will do. Thanks.