Engine Block Coolant Drain Missing
 

I've finished rebuilding my motor and am almost done installing it but I've run into a problem. The coolant drain bolt that's supposed to go in the center plate (drivers side motor mount) is hiding somewhere in my garage. Can I use a regular bolt to replace it? I'd have to put a good layer of teflon tape on, but it shouldn't leak. However, will using a longer bolt cause a blockage in one of the coolant passages? Thanks in advance.
-John
www.TwistedRotors.com

IIRC that bolt has a copper crush washer on it as well. As for it blocking a coolant passage if it is too long, no idea.

yes the original bolt did have a crush washer on it to seal.

If you use a normal bolt you probably won't be able to reach it though the engine mount. That's why the drain plug has such a long head.

You might look for an allen head bolt to do the job, maybe even a long one and use as couple flatwashers. You won't be able to block any coolant passage off by doing that. Basically this drain passage reaches over to the bottom center of the intermediate iron, and acts like a sink drain. The passage is actually about 6" long.

Maybe mazdarecycling.com can sell you one cheap?

James

I have an extra one. PM me if you want it.

Vance

Awlright, as long as I'm not going to block any passages then I'll try the normal bolt. Thanks for your help guys, I'll let ye know how it goes if I get it to work. ;-)

Oh, it will work. It is just a hole with threads. Just plug it. No big mystery there. The question is, can you drain your coolant with the engine in the car?

James

It works just fine! :) The bolt I used is long enough that I can get to it and drain the coolant when needed.
-John
www.TwistedRotors.com