Great advice guys.
Would this be the evidence I was looking for?
I was happy to see this as soon as the side-plate came off.
A couple of new brass plugs and new gaskets and I may be on the road again
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Dr Terry - Your diagnosis and prescription was spot on - Cheers. Also, it's not often a doctor doesn't try to drain your wallet through incorrect diagnosis, your a good one Terry!!
Rod - I didn't have any tests done on the head when it was skimmed but I did re-torqued the head. I'll make sure I get brass plugs and hope there are no cracks in the head or block
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Nick - The KISS rule is a good rule.
Graham - It must be somewhat nice to see the same problems still happening as 25 years ago. A good simple problem with a good simple (KISS) answer. I take pride in experiencing problems that have been around for ages and having the wisdom of people like yourself to assist. A knowledge/skill transfer that doesn't happen enough these days.
Jalmie - I know how you felt when you saw your dud plug. Somewhat relieved it wasn't anything worse. When you say discolouration on the plugs, what colour(s) would indicate trouble?
Scott - Nice one mate. I'll look into getting a test if the new plugs don’t stop. There is nothing to say it's only the plugs supplying the water!
Thanks again everyone. I hope the plugs are the only source of leakage.
Cheers,
Phil