Oil galley plug behind oil cooler

[olBlue]

So today I decided to remove my oil cooler after seeing it drip all summer.(idk if i somehow cut a seal on install) It didn't start until 2 months after driving with the new short block was installed. Anyways I remove the oil cooler assembly and behind the front header mount there is a threaded oil plug... and its loose sitting sideways in the threads. Never had a issue with oil pressure or anything but anyone know what this plugs purpose is? I never installed it or checked it as this engine is a new short block but now ill be reinstalling it using locktight. any help is appreciated. Some info: 94 F250 7.3 IDIT


Here is what i talking about circled in yellow

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[IDIBRONCO]

All of the IDI engines have this plug. If I was to guess, I'd say that it has something to do with the casting process. I could be way off though.

 

[olBlue]

well hopefully it didn't do any damage. the plug got sucked into the cooler and bent the fins a little but that's it. Put the new o rings on today and will be lock titing the plug back in. If it fails again and the new motor blows then ill have a cummins swap to look forward to