REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
See Figures 1 and 2
- Raise and safely support the vehicle, as required.
CAUTION
When draining coolant, keep in mind that cats and dogs are attracted by ethylene glycol antifreeze, and are quite likely to drink any that is left in an uncovered container or in puddles on the ground. This will prove fatal in sufficient quantity. Always drain coolant into a sealable container. Coolant may be reused unless it is contaminated or several years old.
- Drain the cooling system. If the freeze plug is located in the cylinder block, it will be necessary to remove the drain plug from the side of the block to make sure all coolant is drained.
- Drill a 1/2 in. (13mm) hole in the center of the plug. Remove the plug with a slide hammer or pry it out with a prybar.
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Fig. Fig. 1: Using a punch and hammer, the freeze plug can be loosened in the block
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Fig. Fig. 2: Once the freeze plug has been loosened, it can be removed from the block
Be careful to stop drilling as soon as the bit breaks through the plug to prevent damaging the engine.
- Clean all dirt and corrosion from the freeze plug bore. Check the freeze plug bore for damage that would interfere with sealing. If the bore is damaged, the bore will have to be machined for an oversize plug.
- Coat the plug bore and the freeze plug sealing surface with water proof sealer.
- Install cup-type freeze plugs with the flanged edge outward. The plug must be driven in with a tool that does not contact the flange of the plug. If an improper tool is used, the plug sealing edge will be damaged and leakage will result.
- Expansion-type freeze plugs are installed with the flanged edge inward. The plug must be driven in with a tool that does not contact the crowned portion of the plug. If an improper tool is used, the plug and/or plug bore will be damaged.
- Replace any drain plugs that were removed and lower the vehicle.
- Fill the cooling system, start the engine and check for leaks.