Freeze plug installation

[TommyD]

After putting coolant in my newly rebuild 360, I noticed that I have two freeze plugs leaking. Of course they would have to be under each motor mount.

I have ordered a new set and also an removal installation tool and was wondering if there is a trick to the whole process. Odviously those two freeze plugs must be harder than the rest to get in otherwise they wouldn't be leaking.

Any tips or tricks anyone?

[jeepsr4ever]

you want to use a little sealant on the plugs before installation or that is exactly what can happen

[TommyD]

Want type of sealant would you use?

[Al Johnson]

Want type of sealant would you use?

Permatex Form-A-Gasket 1 fast drying, hard setting sealant.

:t:

Al

[Lifted79CJ7]

Thanks for the tip, I had this same problem when I first picked up my 401 and decided to clean it out. Presure washed the insides (yuck!) and after replacing the plugs, had 3 leak ones. I just used some rtv, a socket and a hammer. I didn't realize there was a special tool to use. To get them out, I used a hammer and screwdriver. I have my heads off and am having trouble getting the little tiny freeze plugs out. Any suggestions? I guess I am just gonna have to wait till the afternoon and go somewhere (besides inside my apartment to piss off my neighbors) and wail away. Permatex Form-A-Gasket, gonna go pick some up tomorrow. Anyone have any other comments?

Jack

[luxi401]

When I rebuild my 401 I put in brass freeze plus WITHOUT any sealer, after filling the engine, with coolant, a few of them were leaking (maybe 1 drop every 3 minutes). I let it stay and overnight the brass corroded on the the leaking spots (turned green) and now they are totally tight since 3 years.

[TommyD]

Here is the tool that I ordered. I haven't gotten it in yet, but let's hope it works.

http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/OTC-4603.html

[TommyD]

Good news, after I did the initial startup on the engine, the plugs must have expanded and sealed up. Must be all that clean living I do :mrgreen:

No more leaks! :t:

[luxi401]

it's not expansion of the plugs but it's rather that the "micro gaps" fill up with corrosion (oxygen plus water seeping out, corrodes very quickly) and sediments that are in the coolin fluid.

[TommyD]

I'm glad to hear it! For once corrosion is a good thing!

Thanks! :lo1l:

[jeepsr4ever]

I'm glad to hear it! For once corrosion is a good thing!



:?: