What is the best way to remove freeze plugs?

[section525]

I've heard a lot of people knock them in instead of out. Whats the best way to get them out on the right side of the block??

Thanks

 

[mrboyle]

The easiest way to remove them is to drive a screwdriver into the plug, trying to keep it as close to the outside of the plug as possible. Once you get the screwdriver to break through (and you become covered in coolant) try prying the plug outward. If this doesn't work, drive the plug into the block (make sure you don't let it fall into the cooling jacket). Take a pair of channel lock pliers and rip the sucker out.

 

[Diff Whack Daddy]

The screw driver method is how I have always done it.

 

[VairKing]

Can you drill a hole in it and use a slide hammer to remove?

 

[section525]

That was cake! I just tapped the bottoms in and it pushed the tops out. Then I just pryed them out with the screwdriver. Thanks! Now I just need my cam bearings out and I can hot tank it!

 

[Majisto]

What are freeze plugs? I heard the new modular block in the Explorer eliminated the freeze plugs.

 

[section525]

FREEZE PLUGS: Is actually a steel plug designed to seal holes in the engine block and cylinder head(s) created from the casting process. In freezing weather they may push out if there is not enough anti-freeze protection.


These things:

 

[Diff Whack Daddy]

Have the machine shop you take it to do the cam bearings. They are a ***** and require a special tool. Bring the new ones with you and have them install them when they are done hot tanking it. Cost a little extra, not much, but well worth it.