I am adding a pretty common 3-gauge "pod" below the dash to our 69 Impala. Taking my time trying to make it the best I can given what I have to work with.

The troubles I have now relate to hooking the coolant temp sensor to the engine and connecting the oil pressure line to the engine.

The cylinder heads have one threaded hole on each with a plug, with a square that fits a 3/8" socket. The left head has the factory temperature sender in it. I would like to thread my extra gauge sender to the other head. However I am having trouble getting the plug out. I tried using a ratchet on there and broke a short extension using a cheater bar.

The oil pressure plug right by the oil filter has a very similar plug but it fits a 1/4" socket.

Before I go any furthur, do you have any advice for getting these out without damaging them and/or causing too much further aggrevation?

Another question. I am using copper line for my oil pressure gauge. To account for engine movement, would it be a good idea to have a loop in the line to allow for flex?

Thanks much!

 

get a good penetrating oil, dyna-buster if you can find it. spray a few times, let it soak after each spray for awhile. if you have a hand held propane torch, you can heat around the plug just a few minutes, then try. also, if there's room, for the water temp plug, take a beat up extension, put in into plug and tap on end of extension. don't beat it, but a few good, firm smacks might help break it loose. same with oil plug, use penetrating oil for day or two, tap with extension in it if you can. usually does the trick. and coiling copper line not a bad idea.