C3: 427 Rear cam plug leaking

[Jack O.]

I have posted many times about my quest to find my leak that shows on the bottom of the bellhousing. I've replaced the oil pan gasket several times and the rear main seal. I've pulled the flywheel and believe it's the cam plug in the rear of the block. Looks like a freeze plug. How do I remove this and whats the procedure for installing a new one. There are also two freeze plugs and two threaded plugs in the rear of the block. Should I do anything with the threaded plugs while I'm at it?
Thanks,
Jack

[Joe L.]

Re: C3: 427 Rear cam plug leaking

I have posted many times about my quest to find my leak that shows on the bottom of the bellhousing. I've replaced the oil pan gasket several times and the rear main seal. I've pulled the flywheel and believe it's the cam plug in the rear of the block. Looks like a freeze plug. How do I remove this and whats the procedure for installing a new one. There are also two freeze plugs and two threaded plugs in the rear of the block. Should I do anything with the threaded plugs while I'm at it?
Thanks,
Jack

Jack-----


I don't know of a way to remove the rear cam plug if the cam is in the engine, but someone may know a way. The way I usually do it is to drive the plug in at the top such that the bottom "pivots" out. then, I grab the plug with channel lock pliers and "wiggle" it out. However, I don't think there's enough space between the cam and the plug to drive the top in when the cam is in the engine. Also, with the cam out of the engine, you can just use a long rod or pipe inserted from the front of the engine to drive it out.

Installing the cam plug is much easier. Just use a large socket to drive it in. The problem is, with the engine in the car, it's hard to get enough swing with a hammer to exert sufficient force.

If you can get the threaded plugs out, it would be a good idea to clean and re-seal them. However, I think you'll find that they are a "bear" to get out.

[Joe R.]

Re: C3: 427 Rear cam plug leaking

I recall reading on this board some time ago that the cam plug is a special size that, unfortunately is just slightly larger than one of the standard freeze plug sizes. So, if the person installing the cam plug does not know it is unique, they can put in the smaller size that "sort of" fits, and get a leak. This may have been for small blocks, not big blocks (don't know if the plug is the same), but I thought I would mention it if you are going to replace the plug.

[Ray G.]

Re: C3: 427 Rear cam plug leaking

Hello;
First would recommend you confer w/ a good automotive machine shop about the rear plugs.
Personally, would replace/reseal all rear freeze and oil plugs unless this is a fresh engine.
Can probably help you more in a telephone conversation.
Send a personal message if you would like to try same.
Hope this helps.
Ray

[Clem Z.]

Re: C3: 427 Rear cam plug leaking

i would try cleaning the area real well with brake cleaner and use a good 2 part epoxy to seal the present plug.