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Freeze plug at end of head?


Racenut

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On the front of the head. What is it. A freeze plug or? Looks like I'm leaking coolent from there. It's an 86 2.9. And if so. What can b dun? Rad stop leak. Or what?
Thanks
 


RonD

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There are core holes in heads, core hole is how they get the sand out after head is cast in sand mold with molten metal, engine blocks are done the same way.
The plugs they use in these holes are often called "freeze" plugs although it is a misnomer.

The cheap plugs used at the factory will often last the life of the engine, if coolant is changed every 2 years or so, but if not they can rust and start to leak.
If you can get to the plug remove it and replace with rubber expansion plug, they will last longer and are easier to install.
Google: automotive rubber expansion plug images
All auto parts stores sell them

You just need to tap/hammer on one edge of the leaking core plug and other edge will start to spin and come out, it is just pressed in at the factory.
If it should fall into the head and you can't get it out it isn't the end of the world, it won't block coolant flow, obviously best to remove it but if you can't you can't, put new plug in and forget about it.


No, don't use "stop leak" type product unless it is just for temporary use, i.e. to get you home or to the parts store.

The lower intake where it meets the head can also leak, so check that as well
 
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alwaysFlOoReD

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The rubber plug works good, as long as you get it seated in square and deep enough. I blew one out from the same spot as you have problems. After looking at the plug I could see I installed it wrong. Its a pain to get it in correct but take your time, so you don't do it a second time like me.

Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
 

Racenut

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The rubber plug works good, as long as you get it seated in square and deep enough. I blew one out from the same spot as you have problems. After looking at the plug I could see I installed it wrong. Its a pain to get it in correct but take your time, so you don't do it a second time like me.

Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
Did u have to take the a/c n power steering brackets off to get to it. Or can it b dun with out removing them? When useing the rubber plug

Thanks
 

alwaysFlOoReD

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IIRC I did it without removing anything. That's why you need to be careful when installing because its very tight. If you have time and tools it may be easier to remove stuff first.

Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
 

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