On my 2006 GT, the engine coolant is leaking out of the - what looks like a drain hole at the bottom of the radiator right were the fitting & hose is connected to it. the one side has a Drain Plug part# 3w0121297, that is in all the way but still coolant is leaking out. I've ordered another plug ($61 american, coming from scuderia - Hysterical - piece of plastic for $61!!!)

I am assuming the plug is pulled out - don't know if it's threaded but picture of new plug shows, o ring on tip and no threads - i guess. Why would this all of a sudden start leaking and does someone know precisely how to remove the old one and replace the new one? Do I remove the intercooler Hose (complete with oil accumulated over time) to get at it - or is a long, long needle nose plier the best way to manipulate the drain plug - If at all this is the real problem?

Any suggestions on refilling coolant, as in many american cars, getting the air out of the coolant system is essential for proper cooling

 

Without a pic it’s difficult to comment .The rads eventually corrode away and weep bottom inside precisely where you describe.
Its the bi metallic but alloy core + steel frame = electrolytic corrosion .
Not if but when .My 2004 went in 2018 so your 2006 ( albeit better climate ? ) is bang on time wise, you can almost set your watch on this .
Btw it’s a VAG issue the bi metallic corrosion, inevitably.

Plenty of threads on what else to do “ while in there “

 

I was afraid of that. I've been reading the other threads about what else to do when you remove the rad. So I'll address when I get down to business. Thanks again!

 

yes I would appreciate that. I've already (yesterday) put the car down and back into the garage - I should have included a pic!

 

Hello @Jasonbrand57 ,
I am sorry to hear that you paid $61....

Here is the link to a discussion about the drain plug from back in March, if you are able to remove the plug without damage, as I did, then you would just replace the O-ring.

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...rain-plug.html


Johnny

 

As everyone has lamented, the part itself is $31 or so - but scuderia's insurance and shipping made it $61. I tried the VW/Audi equivalent but i wasn't getting anything (poor internet searching skills I guess). But, this thread is the award winner - it shows the construction and what I'm up against. Was thinking the same about just replacing O ring (if only i looked here 2 days ago). My concern is John's thread about the rad being corroded, in which case this won't help - but we'll see and thank you for your guidance!