603 block drain valve -- 617 drain plug swap?
 

As you all know and I just found out, the coolant draining from the block in the OM617 engine really makes a mess as it splashes over the frame and front suspension members. I had a hard time with several pans catching most of it so I could take it to the local disposal site.

Will the OM603 drain fit the older 617 engine family? The 603 has a drain connection that is a valve rather than a simple plug. It has a hose barb so you can put a piece of 1/2 inch hose over it, loosen the valve, and drain the coolant without making a mess. It would be great if the newer drain valve could be substituted for the older plug.

The OM617 drain plug has 14x1.5mm threads (my measurements). The part number is N 007604 014110.

The OM603 drain valve is part number A 601 997 04 30. I don't know the thread size.

Jeremy

I made a drain plug out of a 1/4 inch galvanized nipple (2 inches), a 1/4 inch galvanized ball valve, another nipple and a 1/4 inch galvanized cap to go over the threads on the end.

To drain, I use a piece of garden hose with one end cut off.