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Since you gouged out the bad freeze plug you have to decide if you're going to replace it lying on your back under the car, or if you're going to remove the engine. If you decide to remove the engine you MAW replace all the freeze plugs and do other maintenance that might be needed. What's the condition of your oil pan and timing chain cover gaskets?
I am focused on this one plug for now. I was not expecting it to be this stuck. I've pried quite a bit, even bending a 3/8 ratchet extension in the process.
Generally you'd aligned a punch on the "edge" of the plug and smack it w/ a BFH. The plug should rotate inside the hole. Of course, tons easier w/ engine removed.
Yeah I had hoped to smack it hard enough to get it to move. The approach is a little bit angled. I also figured prying it would help. It's still firmly in place. Now I'm thinking in terms of chemicals and fire.
If you have a channel lock pliers, you may be able to get the tip in there and wedge it out.
You can get an expandable rubber freeze plug at an auto parts store.
That will be much easier to install lying under the car.
That will make a great temporary repair until the other 5 plugs start leaking.
Last edited by Charlie Jones; February 29th, 2024 at 07:40 AM.
The OP got it done--good job.Here is advice for others.Buy a freeze plug installation tool.There are plenty on the web I'm sure Harborfreight has them used this in my shop for many years and it makes it soo much easier.Of course I have the benefit of a lift.I could't do anything with my 73 year old screwed up body..
I'll try to put a link:
link didn't work--google freeze plug tool
I had the same issue with my engine on a road trip when i first picked up my car , same frost plug behind starter , frost plug was rusty and dumped the coolant . For a quick fix had a shop install a block heater , that plugged the hole until i could get the car home . Then had a local shop replace all the frost plugs except one , they were not able to do the frost plug behind the dip stick tube , with out breaking the dip stick tube so that plug still needs done .
As Charlie said the others will go next , so one done but more to go .
Question is this issue do to acidic coolant ? or would happen any way ?
2nd question is there another frost plug between the engine and trans that could corrode and leak coolant ?
Question is this issue do to acidic coolant ? or would happen any way ?
2nd question is there another frost plug between the engine and trans that could corrode and leak coolant ?
I don't know if it is an acidity issue, but the failure to change coolant regularly ( flush & fill ) causes most cooling system rust problems.
In some localities the water is acidic, and it is recommended that distilled water and antifreeze mixture should be used.
#2,Yes sometimes there are, as well as plugs in the cylinder heads.
Last edited by Charlie Jones; March 25th, 2024 at 06:49 PM.
February 28th, 2024, 09:17 PM
