Overdrive Plug Gasket [Yea or Nay]?

[RJS]

Hi All,

On a 1966 TR4A IRS, does the big brass plug in the bottom of the overdrive unit use a gasket/washer?

Mine came with one. Last year when I changed my tranny fluid I ordered a new fiber washer. It was much thicker than the one I replaced and not exactly smooth on the mating surfaces. But, I went ahead and used it anyway. Now I confirmed it's leaking ever so slightly.

This evening I noticed one of the catalogs for one of the big three lists a fiber washer for all overdrives <span style="text-decoration: underline">except</span> the one for the TR4A IRS.

Thoughts?

Bob
PS: I saved the old washer so I could re-use it, if needed

 

[TR3driver]

Mistake in the catalog, IMO. The factory parts books show that gasket all the way through the end of the A-type OD. And without it, that joint will leak more than ever so slightly.

While you're changing the gasket, examine the sealing surface of the plug. It is easy to damage the plug, especially if you use a hammer & punch to turn it or even use one of the tools that only grabs a single lug. I use a custom-made tool that grabs all 6 lugs.

 

[RJS]

Thanks Randall

I very well could have warped the plug. I tightened it with a strap wrench and gave it a final few taps home with a hammer and a 2x4 against one of the notches.

I'll inspect it and re-use the old washer. Any suggestions on gasket sealant?

Bob

 

[TR3driver]

I use Hylomar.