I have rarely seen a tapered bottom drain plug leak any large amount. What I have found is that the countershafts leak and drip toward the plug. They are partially hidden by the trans munt depending on the year mount utilized. We have sealed several EV8 trans using shafts with O-ring grooves cut in them. High grade RTV is a must....on both ends. Let it air dry for several days before you fill it. I'm using Brad Penn GL4 lube and STP so far, so good... no leaks and shifts nice.