Re: (pimpsh!t)
Quote, originally posted by pimpsh!t » |
Are you refering to the oil galley plug? |
I am sure he is.
Yes VW has been using steel balls that are pressed into the oil galley after the machining is done for the oil galleys. The aluminum around the ball is then peened in to keep it from backing out.
When rebuilding the heads the ball can be removed to gain access to the galley for cleaning and re-drilling as needed, we then install a threaded pipe plug afterward which is how many manufacturers prepare their heads from the start. I believe that VW should also be using threaded pipe plugs rather than balls that must be drilled and then pulled as they currently do, especially if they are now popping out as has been suggested.
If the ball was to back out, oil pressure will almost immediately be lost to the lifters and cams and this could be very catastrophic to the head. I plan to check mine frequently to see if it is moving or loose. I will post back if this is so.
-Rich