Lycoming O-320 Expansion Plug

[rmalone]

The expansion plug in the end of the crankshaft of my O-320 is leaking oil. I have a new plug but as with everything, I know there are some tricks to removal and installation. Any input would be appreciated since I have never done this before.

Thanks.

[gliderman]

Hi Rex

i've put quite a few of these in...
Take a brass drift and concave the middle of the plug. it should just come out. clean the area including the inside of the crank( Great time to remove the somewhat scuzzy sludge in there)
take some Loctite( red) and apply a bead around the area on the crank where the perimeter of the plug touches the crank. install plug with the convex side facing you and use the brass drift to flatten out the plug.
things should be ready to rock and roll :)

Shane-o

[rmalone]

Thanks Shane, sounds easy enough.

[Steve Pierce]

Smack it a couple of times and see if it doesn't quit leaking. I pierce a hole in the plug and use a slide hammer with a lag bolt in the end. You can also use a large od washer to turn it out with a lag bolt.

[rmalone]

Thanks for the info.