Small Leak

[aj81spider]

There is a small amount of fluid that is collecting on my input manifold right around the plug that replaced the emissions valve that went there. You can see it in this picture if you look closely.



I'm hoping it is water and not a gas leak from the carburetor right above it. I seem to remember that there is coolant flowing around the emissions valve, but I'm not sure. Is it possible that my plug is not sealing (and if not what could I do to correct that?) or am I into a bigger problem with a leaky carb?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[vandor]

Yes, there is pressurized coolant under that plug. If it is coolant and not gas, then remove the plug while the engine is cold, put thread locker (locktite) on the threads and put it back. That is assuming the plug has the right threads, and wasn't cross-threaded when it was put in there...

[johndemar]

There is a coolant port into the head right there as well. If it's not the plug it maybe the gasket between the manifold and head that's leaking. Here's hoping for the simple solution.

[aj81spider]

Thanks for the replies. I'm going to aim for the simple solution and try the Loctite. One question - do I need to drain the coolant before doing? Does that hole open into the cylinders and do I run the risk of getting water into them or can I do it without draining the coolant?

[vandor]

It would be best to partially drain the coolant.