So, Ron; if I understand correctly, the brass plugs are (contrary to previous wisdom) NOT a good idea, as they will induce the block itself to corrode, albeit at a somewhat slower pace due to size of exposed area. I think I got the chemistry right but please say if I'm off track.
Anyway, the saga continues. This very nice email from Paul at LRDirect:
Hi Steve
As far as I am aware they no longer make the core plugs in brass I'm afraid. I have found a core plug that is 1.5 inches diameter but unfortunately I only have two of them.
They were in a misc parts box so there isn't a part number attached to them. I have measured all the ones we have in stock and looked at all the V8 manuals but can't find out where they have come from. I will put these in the post to you. I have asked our suppliers if they come across any to let me know.
Sorry I can't be of more help.
Best regards,
Paul
I was pretty impressed! There was no charge for the additional/replacement items. The ones he has sent are nickel plated mild steel, and I assume the nickel plating helps limit corrosion for halfwits who leave the coolant in the block for 12 years without changing it.
The plugs arrived and I fitted the first one using Red Hylomar, which says on the packet that it resists steam, and also helps inhibit corrosion between dissimilar metals. Sounds like just the job eh? It went in very easily (too easily?), and flushed with success I decided to replace its next door neighbour while the exhaust was dropped and the starter was out. I decided to try a different extraction method which I saw on a US thread. Using a screwdriver and hammer you just tap one edge of the plug and basically spin it round in the hole - then extract with pliers. The second one came out a treat. Took about 5 minutes instead of the 1.5+ hours that it's compadre took. Also much less muscle required.
Fitted second plug using Hylomar also.
Very excited, and a little bit proud.
Refill with coolant.
Both new core plugs are leaking precious emerald fluid all over the drive.
I have managed to stop the second plug from leaking by judicious tapping at the edges - it obviously wasn't in straight. I emptied the system again and using the "spin round in the hole method" removed the first plug and re-fitted it. It still leaks, but not as badly. I think I must have distorted it when I put it in the first time. I have another plug on order from coreplugs.co.uk. Am hoping that I will be more successful with this one - on reflection I should have ordered half a dozen.
So more still to come on this I'm afraid.