Install freeze plugs

Search titles only Posted by Member: Separate names with a comma. Newer Than: Search this thread only Search this forum only Display results as threads. Useful Searches. This site was created in , to provide enthusiasts with a place to discuss T-Buckets.

Over the years, there have been many imitators, but this is the T-Bucket resource you have been looking to find. We encourage you to register a FREE account and join in on the discussions. How to install a freeze plug? PotvinGuy Expand Collapse.

After sitting in F for a few nights, my SBC popped a freeze plug. Do I get a new one, or just reuse the old one? How do you install it? Is there a tool, or just bash it with a big hammer? Old Rotor Flap Expand Collapse. I would not reuse the freeze plug. Get a new one. Then I use a presidential or prick punch to surround the plug with a series of dents into the cast iron next to the plug. After that was done I grabbed my new set of plugs and a few tools to button this puppy up!

The tool is designed to evenly apply pressure around all edges of the plug while you hammer it in — it also keeps you from over-inserting the freeze plug to your engine block. I put a dab of transmission oil around the edge of the plugs to help them slip into their spots. Some plugs went really easily, as you see in the video, and others I had to try at two or three times. Give the video above a watch to see this process in action. These new plugs were a quick, inexpensive thing I could do to help ensure my first engine rebuild is top-notch and stays leak free for miles to come!

What about between engine and tranny,will that tool work or do I have to drop the complete tranny,I got toyota fourrunner v6. Freeze plugs typically are installed and forgotten about, but when you have problem, they can be a thorn in your side.

Installing freeze plugs is not hard, but there are some complications that arise. Some of the freeze plugs are easy to reach, but there are some that are impossible to reach with the engine in the vehicle. The most common issues with freeze plugs are freezing and corrosion. If the temperature drops below the protection level of the antifreeze in the water, then you run the risk of the water freezing.

When that happens, the water expands. If you are lucky, it will only push out a freeze plug or two. Once the water melts, the coolant will start to leak from the freeze plug. Corrosion failure is a bit different. There are three types of freeze plugs: brass, rubber expanding , and steel. Steel plugs on the other hand, rust pretty easily.

Over time, the corrosion will break down the seal, allowing the plug to leak. Rubber plugs , which are commonly used for quick repairs, breakdown over time from the heat cycles. They have to be replaced as soon as they start leaking. Freeze plugs come in many different sizes, and your engine will have multiple sizes, some engines have 10 or more plugs.

Re: sealant on freeze plugs Most plug manufacturers recommend only a light coat of oil on the plugs , installed into a clean core hole with no pits. Never use any type of silicone or RTV sealer as it is slippery and will help the plugs slip out. Replacing freeze plugs is not hard , but getting to them can be really tough with the engine in the vehicle. Prices vary depending on which one it is that needs replacement and what the labor rates are in your area.

Some are easy to get to, while others require transmission removal, starter removal or motor mount removal. Yes, you can drive with a bad freeze plug. The engine will run, but the coolant level will below.