Bungs

● Safety First: Park on a level surface, use wheel chocks, engage the parking brake. Work in a well-ventilated area. Allow the exhaust system to cool completely before starting.
● Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the bung threads. Use a wire brush designed for threads (like a brass brush) to remove rust, carbon, debris, or old thread locker/sealant. Spraying brake cleaner on a rag and wiping the threads can help dissolve grease.
● Verify Fitment: Before applying any compound, gently thread the new plug into the clean bung by hand to ensure it starts smoothly and the threads match. Do not force it. If it doesn't thread easily, double-check the thread size.

● For Tapered (NPT) Threads: Apply a small amount of high-temperature anti-seize compound (specifically formulated for exhaust systems) to the male threads of the plug. Alternatively, use a high-temperature PTFE thread sealant paste.
● For Parallel Threads w/ Washer: Apply anti-seize only to the threads if desired (but not essential). Focus on ensuring the sealing washer is in place. Do not put sealant on the washer face unless the plug manufacturer specifically instructs it.

Start by Hand! Carefully align the plug with the bung and thread it in clockwise by hand only for the first several turns. This is crucial to avoid cross-threading. Stop immediately if you feel significant resistance.

● Hand Tight Plus 1/4-1/2 Turn: Once fully hand-tight, use an appropriate wrench (open-end or socket) to gently tighten the plug. The goal is snug and secure, not excessively tight.
● Specific Torque: If available, use the torque specification recommended by the plug manufacturer (often quite low, like 10-20 ft-lbs). If specs aren't available, tighten firmly by hand with the wrench until resistance is felt, then give only one-quarter to one-half turn more.
● Avoid: Do not overtighten. Tapered threads (NPT) gain sealing force as they wedge deeper, not just from high torque.
● Visual Inspection: Check for any obvious gaps. Start the engine (with adequate ventilation) and carefully listen for any hissing sounds near the plug and feel around it (avoid touching the hot exhaust!) for escaping gases. A small puff of smoke when first started might be residual sealant burning off.