Semi-circular plug - run or replace?

[rfakhrai]

I broke off the lip of one of the semi-circular plugs while cleaning it. Do you all think the FIPG will seal the gap or should I get a new one?

 

[bhsdriller]

That's not really a sealing surface will be fine with the FIPG

 

[tmxmotorsports]

Where did the little piece of metal go?

 

[rfakhrai]

Where did the little piece of metal go?

In the trash can, thankfully. I was brushing it over the trash when the piece sheared off.

 

[rfakhrai]

Sounds like I'll run it. I'm happy to save myself another prolonged wait for the dealership to fulfill an order.

 

[Kernal]

Clean the half moon and the head where they mate very well, remove all varnish so both are squeaky clean. Apply FIPG to the space between the lips, reinstall, no need for excess which will just squeeze out.

Flipping it, cracked side inward if you wanted it to look better, probably wouldn't make much of a difference if the is sealant properly applied. Any FIPG approved for engine oil exposure would work: Toyota 103, Permatex Ultra, Permatex the Right Stuff ---

Or, replacement half moons (11183-50010) are ~ 15$ each IIRC.

 

[rfakhrai]

Flipping it, cracked side inward if you wanted it to look better

I thought about doing this but decided not to in case the metal continues to flake from that point and drop into the timing chain cover.

 

[Kernal]

You could whack the plug a few times with a plastic hammer to see if anything falls off, or just clean well and inspect closely for hairline cracks.
If it's that bad a replacement might be indicated.

 

[Broski]

I thought about doing this but decided not to in case the metal continues to flake from that point and drop into the timing chain cover.

Best reason to replace them.
No need to worry about it.