what's involved in doing this? what special tools do i need? is it possible to do it with the motor in the car?

i have a running 350 TPI motor in another car but some of the freeze plugs on each side of the block are leaking. i dunno if i'll ever get to rebuild this motor but i'd like to at least fix the freeze plug problem without having to pull the whole thing outta the car.

TIA

 

Core plugs on the sides of the block can usually be replaced with the engine installed, but you'll have to remove some parts to gain access to some. The starter, exhausts, steering pump, A.I.R. pump, and other accessories may have to be removed depending on which plugs you're trying to replace. No special tools should be necessary.

 

doesnt sound too bad. thanks. so can i just walk into any parts store and get freeze plugs for a SBC? (never bought 'em before).

 

Yep.

 

don't forget to use sealer on the lip of the plug.

 

Are you sure the 2 on the back of the block, inside the bell housing, aren't leaking too?

Reason I'm asking is, you'll go through probably more labor changing those side ones out in the chassis than pulling the motor; and if those are rusted from the inside, the others can't possibly be far behind. May even be worse, who knows. You might go through all that work, and 2 days later, come out to your car in the morning to see coolant dripping out of the bell housing.

Bottom line is, if I was you and I had 2 or more known rotted out freeze plugs, I'd change all 8 of them; and I'd put brass ones in this time instead of steel.

 

i dunno about the back ones. like you said they may not be far behind if they're not already leaking. the thing is i'd like to change 'em all but would rather not have to put the motor on a stand. if i do that i might as well rebuild it but dont wanna mess with that yet. it's got 156K miles but runs perfectly smooth with good compression. i plan on changing all the gaskets, seals, run synthetic oil in it and drive it. i'm guessing i can just pull the motor out with a picker and change 'em right there real quick then drop it back in the car? or should i put it on the stand in case the job takes longer than expected?