replacing freeze plugs

[nickjack69]

i need some advice on the easiest way to change out a freeze plug on a 5.0 mercruiser motor. the motor is still in the boat.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

Howdy,

The easiest way to replace them is to punch a hole in them and pry them out with a screwdriver.

Drive the new ones in with a mallet and a deep socket or other driver that just fits inside them. Use brass replacements.

By the way they are not "FREEZE" plugs. They are core plugs for the casting process.

If they popped out because your block had water in it and it froze you may have bigger problems.

 

[havasuboatman]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

Drive one edge of the plug in with a punch. this should cause the plug to flig sideways allowing you to grab it with pliers and pull it out. Then coat the edge of the new seal and the hole with sealant, place a socket that just fits inside the new plug and carefully drive it in. Keep it square to the opening.

 

[havasuboatman]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

Howdy,

The easiest way to replace them is to punch a hole in them and pry them out with a screwdriver.

Drive the new ones in with a mallet and a deep socket or other driver that just fits inside them. Use brass replacements.

By the way they are not "FREEZE" plugs. They are core plugs for the casting process.

If they popped out because your block had water in it and it froze you may have bigger problems.

Great disclaimer

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

Great disclaimer

Yeah, Actually I removed all the "freeze" plugs in my 454 and replaced them...and I pushed/drove them in and pryed them out as you described above!


By the way, it would probably be good to have a look at the following Merc SB.

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Bullet/87/87_14.pdf


Cheers,


Rick

 

[nickjack69]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

the plug is already out. will i need to pull the motor to get to it. its in a tight spot behind the motor mount and the way the boat is set up.

 

[MikDee]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

You could put a temporary expanding rubber one in for now, if you can get at it.

 

[180shabah]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

It sounds like you already know the answer to that question. Start disconnecting things.

 

[Bondo]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

will i need to pull the motor to get to it.

Ayuh,..... Probably....

 

[saxman9801]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

I'd check the other side of the block for cracks, I inherited my boat with that plug missing, and on the opposite side of the block i had a nice split in it.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: replacing freeze plugs

Even if it is not cracked on the outside, V-8's frequently crack in the "valley". You don't see it unless you remove the intake manifold and look above the cam followers behind the push rods.

Of course, if it's cracked in there you'll eventually see the gray oil on the dipstick.

Good luck!


Rick