HFCM Drain Plug Corrosion

[Gus_hauler]

So this week I replaced my fuel filters for the first time. I was surprised when the drain plug came out easily. I was anticipating a fight. Then when I looked at the plug closer, I found out why, and was shocked!

The drain plug was about half corroded! I'm guessing that this is not the factory plug, right? I already put an order in for one of the updated brass plugs. I was very happy to see that this one threaded back in, and doesn't leak to get me by until the new plug gets in.

If this is the factory plug, why on earth would they use something that would corrode this badly?

[ruizhernandeztrust]

WOW!
How's the condition of the fuel filters when you took it out? I bet they are dirty as hell.

[dannyboy950]

That looks like the factory plug. Ford intended for the plug to be removed and the chamber drained each filter change, when that has been done regularly the plug doesn't get in that kind of shape.

[southend]

I think they all look like that to some degree. There is an update toolless brass drain plug, about $12-15.

Sent from my phone that somebody didn't help me get.

[Gus_hauler]

Thanks for the reply guys. Yeah, I'm thinking the previous owner didn't drain that valve, ever! So, water would settle to the bottom, and corrode that plug, right? First thing I did today is order the updated toolless plug from Tousley. Still, it seems pretty stupid for the factory to use that metal there. Maybe it's "sacrificial" like the anode rods in water heaters!

[southend]

Originally Posted by Gus_hauler

Thanks for the reply guys. Yeah, I'm thinking the previous owner didn't drain that valve, ever! So, water would settle to the bottom, and corrode that plug, right? First thing I did today is order the updated toolless plug from Tousley. Still, it seems pretty stupid for the factory to use that metal there. Maybe it's "sacrificial" like the anode rods in water heaters!

It is zinc coated, which is a sacrificial coating. You are correct, once the coating is gone, it rusts.

Sent from my phone that somebody didn't help me get.

[farmfan90]

I have also had this same issue. Below are my pictures after I had cleaned it up to get me by till I got the new one. I had number 8 injector hang up on me this summer and wonder how much this an impact on that.

[ruizhernandeztrust]

My curiosity is taking over. I wanna take a look at mine to see how it looks.

[farmfan90]

If you haven't gotten the updated plug I would suggest it. Not too pricey and very handy when it comes to removing and draining.

[Dante04SRT]

Mine didn't look that bad, but it was starting to corrode. I change my fuel filters religiously, too.