Tower plugs vs. VLOM gaskets for DOD delete

[thefrey]

I have noticed some companies sell a VLOM in their DOD kits that have gaskets on the VLOM to seal the towers.

Is this sufficient enough? Or do you 100% need to use something hard to block off the towers?

 

[SpareParts]

The seals work good for a while but long term they will harden and not seal so well.
The engine i am currently work on the seals were junk.
I ordered these to never have a problem with them again.

Amazon.com: OywhC Engine Plugs Fit for Non-AFM GM Engines 2008-2023 LSX & LT Models 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, 6.2,Non-DOD/AFM Oil Valley Plugs Stainless Steel Material Set of 10 : Automotive

Buy OywhC Engine Plugs Fit for Non-AFM GM Engines 2008-2023 LSX & LT Models 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, 6.2,Non-DOD/AFM Oil Valley Plugs Stainless Steel Material Set of 10: Engine Parts - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

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Bad seals.

 

[thefrey]

The seals work good for a while but long term they will harden and not seal so well.
The engine i am currently work on the seals were junk.
I ordered these to never have a problem with them again.

Amazon.com: OywhC Engine Plugs Fit for Non-AFM GM Engines 2008-2023 LSX & LT Models 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, 6.2,Non-DOD/AFM Oil Valley Plugs Stainless Steel Material Set of 10 : Automotive

Buy OywhC Engine Plugs Fit for Non-AFM GM Engines 2008-2023 LSX & LT Models 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, 6.2,Non-DOD/AFM Oil Valley Plugs Stainless Steel Material Set of 10: Engine Parts - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Bad seals.
View attachment 473706

Yep. This is what I was worried about and figured would happen…

I should put plugs in while I’m in there. I can just keep the seals on the VLOM too for giggles. Redundancy.

Next thing is I need to figure out something by this weekend…

 

[solli5pack]

I just used the vlom with gaskets and no plugs in the towers. 2 years in and no issues...My tuck idles at 40psi oil pressure with 60 and up while driving. I also plugged the relief valve in the oil pan.

 

[donjetman]

I have noticed some companies sell a VLOM in their DOD kits that have gaskets on the VLOM to seal the towers.

Is this sufficient enough? Or do you 100% need to use something hard to block off the towers?

As preventative mx I replaced my vlom and gasket with stock. Original was fine, bolts were tight still, everything doing its job and was 18 yrs old w/196k miles.

 

[j91z28d1]

when afm isn't active the vlom solenoids actually vent the oil that backs up thru those holes. if it didn't the pressure would build up and release the lifters and mess up the afm timings.

in theory you could run those holes wide open without a noticeable loss of oil pressure. but don't they just use a roller bearing to block those? if you look around there's a part number for a wheel bearing or something most auto parts stores carry. you cut the cage and tap a roller into each hole. they are a cone so don't hammer them in to hard.

 

[thefrey]

when afm isn't active the vlom solenoids actually vent the oil that backs up thru those holes. if it didn't the pressure would build up and release the lifters and mess up the afm timings.

in theory you could run those holes wide open without a noticeable loss of oil pressure. but don't they just use a roller bearing to block those? if you look around there's a part number for a wheel bearing or something most auto parts stores carry. you cut the cage and tap a roller into each hole. they are a cone so don't hammer them in to hard.

Yeah I know a lot of people use roller bearings to block them. Haven’t done enough digging to figure out which ones but definitely might pick one up to use

 

[SpareParts]

I have used bearings also.
Here is the number you want.

 

[thefrey]

I have used bearings also.
Here is the number you want.

View attachment 473754

Amazing. Thank you. I remembered that photo from somewhere but couldn’t remember who posted it. I’ll go pick it up tomorrow.

 

[thefrey]

I have used bearings also.
Here is the number you want.

View attachment 473754

Do these sit flush with the towers? I want to make sure the aftermarket VLOM will fit since it also has the gaskets.

 

[SpareParts]

Yeah they sit flush one you tap them in with a hammer.

 

[thefrey]

Yeah they sit flush one you tap them in with a hammer.

View attachment 473772

Found it. Now I just gotta figure out how to disassemble it. Any tips?

 

[SpareParts]

I used a 4 1/2 in grinder. Just cut the cage and it falls apart.

 

[thefrey]

I used a 4 1/2 in grinder. Just cut the cage and it falls apart.

You used violence. I like it.

 

[thefrey]

You used violence. I like it.

Sawzall with a giant blade works well too

 

[SpareParts]

Perfect!

 

[PatDTN]

For what it's worth I used a tap coated in grease to tap the holes and catch the cuttings. Then screwed in plugs. I don't remember the details of what tap but obviously plugs to match the threads.