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MG MGA - Leaky differential plug

My original differential plugs were starting to weep a bit so I got some new ones from Moss.

The new ones leak worse than the old ones! Plus the original once sit roughly flush with bottom of the diff. The new one sits roughly 1/2" - 5/8" proud when fully screwed in.

Anyone with a similar problem?

Would teflon tape be an acceptable application on the threads to help at least reduce the leaking.

Thanks as always
Tysen McCarthy

Hi Tysen
Not an expert and have never played around with them, but.......
I understand that the cars original had small steel ones that were replaced by larger plastic ones, so I guess the fact that it protrudes does not necessarilly mean there's a problem.
Of course they are not "plugs" but actualy a breather valve with a cap to go on top - are you sure the leak is from the threads?
If it really is leaaking down the threads, I am guessing teflon tape might be ok, but personally i think i would be concerned about bits dropping in to the diff. Maybe something like Holymer Blue might be safer?

As I said, I am not an expert but hopefully someone will drop by who has experience on these things
Graham V

Graham, I think Tyson meant the filler and drain plugs. On mine, I used teflon tape.
Gary Lock

Tysen, wrap the plug with a few turns of teflon tape, but make sure is the yellow type, not the basic white plumbers style as you need something that's oil resistant. Also do check to see if the leak is coming from the rear pinion seal as its common for this type of leak to flow backwards down the rib of the differential and onto the the drain plug. A pinion seal leak will also cause oil to be sprayed onto the bottom of the battery cover, springs, inner tires, etc. It may not be a lot of oil, but it does happen. Do make sure you thoroughly clean and inspect the plug for any breaks in the threads or hairline cracks, as no amount of sealant may cure this issue. I don't like the aftermarket replacement plugs; if your original looks good, stick with that.
Nick Kopernik

Thanks Gary, I stand corrected!
Graham V

Loctite 561 is the answer to all your thread sealing problems, so much better than teflon tape.
https://www.henkel-adhesives.com/au/en/product/thread-sealants/loctite_5610.html?
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

The 561 looks good Mike, I've seen that on the chart but never on the shelf here. I usually use 515/518 flange sealant on bungs but that stick'll be worth a try . Do you use primer or just wipe it on a clean bung.
willy
William Revit

Hi Willie, Works great. I just wipe dry and apply like lipstick (as others do!). I was given this stick some years ago by a local MGA owner’s son who worked for Henkel. I see it is available from Sparebox, etc.
cheers
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

This thread was discussed between 29/05/2024 and 08/06/2024

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