Another Gt-40X Aluminum Head Question

ronzara · #1 (**permalink**) 08-10-2003, 04:50 PM

Does anybody know what size pipe plugs go in these heads. The holes seem huge,... I got some 3/8" plugs (at least thats what it says on the package, look s A LOT bigger to me) from Lowes, and it fits the hole but the threads are too fine...... ???????

BYW,..... What are these huge holes for??? I see they go through, and are coolant holes,...... ????????

Thanks,
RZ

SFfiredog · #2 (**permalink**) 08-11-2003, 01:54 PM

If you are talking about the large holes in the ends of the heads
they are for the factory smog pump cross-over tube. There are special threaded inserts readily available from Ford to plug these holes.
HTH,
Mike

ronzara · #3 (**permalink**) 08-11-2003, 04:51 PM

Thanks for your reply!
Yes, those are the holes I am talking about. I tried a 3/8" pipe-thread plug..... TOO BIG. I guess they must be a 5/16" pipe-thread. Will a normal threaded head Plug work??? Where can I Get the Ford ones?? thanks!!
RZ

PSB · #4 (**permalink**) 08-11-2003, 08:02 PM

I got some at my local Ford dealership. Part # F4ZZ6E086A, $3.28 for a set of two. They even come with thread locker on them.

Pete

ronzara · #5 (**permalink**) 08-12-2003, 12:08 PM

Pete,
Thanks for the info. I called both Ford Dealerships here,... one wants $7.50 a pack and the other $5.80. They say they are showing NO INFORMATION other then "INSERTS" on the part number...... ??????? Plus, they'll have to order them....

Wow,.......

I guess I'll have to make a trip over there and see what they have. Again, thanks for the info.
RZ

ronzara · #6 (**permalink**) 08-13-2003, 04:22 PM

PETE,
How did you install these,..... looks like I should use a really wide flat screw driver or something......???? thanks

Here's a good one for you,.......
I went to Ford Dealership and ordered these head Inserts.... $5.80 (they come in a Pack of 2.. you can not order just one insert...... They are NOT AVAILABLE SEPARATELY,...... SO, I told the guy I need 2 packs of 2,..... He order's them,...... $12.00 plus change...... NO BIG DEAL,.... So, I go to get them today,..... There is ONE pack. The guy that did the ordering was not there. I told the parts guy...... "I ordered AND PAID for 2 EA....... This (TO ME) means I should've received 4 inserts ..... 2 packs, each pack with 2 inserts......

NO, the guys says,....... you ordered and paid for only 2 inserts.......... WHAT ?????? YOU MEAN TO DO 2 HEADS IT COSTS $24.00 ???????? What THE **** !!!!!! ??????????

I should've taken some KY jelly with me,,,........ OUCH!!!!!!!

RZ

PSB · #7 (**permalink**) 08-16-2003, 11:31 AM

The handle of the wrench for changing disks on my high-speed grinder happened to fit perfectly into the inserts - so that's what I used to install them. A screwdriver with a really wide blade would work also.

Sounds like it's time to find another Ford dealership! My local dealership only charged me $3.28 for a pack of two inserts!

Pete

Rick Parker · #8 (**permalink**) 08-16-2003, 03:44 PM

1/2 Diameter coarse thread set screws will fit these holes too. THEY ARE NOT TAPERED PIPE PLUGS. However the OEM inserts provide for an internal thread designed for the mounting of accessories such as the alternator. Generally there are only 2 inserts required for OEM (front) as the exhaust gases are fed into the holes from the rear of the engine and use a banjo bolt and a fitting at the rear of each head. The passage (if it is an emissions compliant part) runs the length of the head above the exhaust ports and in some applications (aftermarket applications) has to be drilled the last final amount to make it functional. Now go arm wrestle the dealer.

Good luck

Rick

rlearp · #9 (**permalink**) 08-16-2003, 08:30 PM

I got some from the hardware store, 1/2" NPT. Works fine, 0.80 each for iron, brass are also available. McMaster Carr has hex head type I've used too www.mcmaster.com

Ron