leaky pipe plug in gas tank

Steve Braverman · September 6th, 2009

I recently had the tank out of Dad's 1923 Franklin. The original drain plug got lost so I got a replacement at the auto parts store. It's a brass plug in a steel bung. No matter how tight I make it, it drips. Is there any kind of sealant that it appropriate for this?

msmazcol · September 6th, 2009

Hello Steve,
Thanks again for the photos on the sit and ride jeep.
We use good old # 2 Perma-tex. The nasty brown stuff in the tube. It will remain soft for latter removal but should stop the gas leak. I believe it even says gas lines, etc. on the tube.
Good luck

Larry Schramm · September 6th, 2009

I would also recommend Permatex pipe sealant with teflon. It is avalilble with a GM part number along with the permatex at the auto parts store.

jdome · September 7th, 2009

You also want to make sure the thread on the replacement plug matches the hole. ie NPT or straight thread. Most of the old cars used plumbing tapered thread on tanks. Most modern brass fittings that you buy at auto stores are NPS straight thread. Normally NPS will only start to thread into NPS hole unless it is worn and/or you force it or re-thread it. You can buy brass NPT plugs at Home Depot plumbing.

Valikie22 · September 8th, 2009

I am glad to find your site - now I know what a good one looks like.
Very good topic to share with us. Great info.
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John Gelfer · September 28th, 2009

Yes, it is pipe thread. Plumbing supply or hardware store will have it. There is a special fuel proof petcock lube (keeps them from dripping, and also prevents binding up) which also works as a non-hardening gasket compound for fuel related items. It is mainly used in aviation, but I think it is for sale from some of the antique car parts vendors.