bert4332

Well I went to summerize my engine and I found four freeze plugs in the bilge.

Couple of questions, does that necessarily mean that I had a freezing problem? I drained the block just like every other time, don't use anti-freeze, but I guess I need to start. We did have some unusual cold weather in TX this winter.

Can I use the same plugs or need new ones?

How do I install them?

thanx

HotPursuit

You may want to pull the engine. If the ones on the side pushed out its a good chance the ones in the rear of the block also came out.
To install new ones the holes should be cleaned,,a socket that fits tight as possible will work.I have a aluminum plug that fits inside and drives the shoulder. Use a good sealer. DONT REUSE and make sure there brass or SS>
I would also pressure test the complete package sounds like you still had some water in the block.I have never seen freeze plugs push out without other problems.You might get lucky but a little time will save plenty $$$ and pain done the road!!! Good luck .
I use a electric heater in the really cold periods,some use light bulbs but to much trust in a bulb going out for me.

bert4332

unfortunately I store my boat in a boat yard with no electrical access.

obnoxus

I have had dozens of engines come through the shop with popped freeze plugs.

ONE had only popped the freeze plug and not cracked the block as well

wish you the best,,,, but be prepared

pslonaker

iTrader: (1)

We did have some seriously cold weather in January...much worse than normal. I am helping a friend with the same issue. Not to piss on your parade, but he lost both exhaust manifolds, both heads and a big crack just above the lifters on the port side. I saw the exhaust manifolds cracked and checked the oil. There was water in there and I told him to get ready to sit down and cry. The cold snap of 9* here killed the whole motor. He has a useful oil pan, intake and carb...thats all that is left. Good luck.

HotPursuit

Thats the normal,It takes a lot of force to drive out a frezze plug!! Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

bert4332

Well at least I wont be the only one, no one I know of uses anti-freeze here to winterize, just draining.

The rear plugs are in tack, if that is a hopeful sign. So how do you if you have ALL the water out of the block?

PhantomChaos

Why do they even put freeze plugs in if they don't save anything? Sorry.....but this sounds bad. Time to re-power!

whoya

iTrader: (1)

I hate to say it but it might not be to good for that block.
I would guess if your freeze plugs popped your oil cooler and seawater pump did to.
A long time ago I went down that ugly road.

JaayTeee

It's not their intended purpose...they're core plugs
( used in the block casting process)

I've never ran across one that had one pop out
that didn't have a cracked block.