Since I have the engine out I think it is a good time to replace the frost plugs. I have a slight leak on one at the back. I have bought a set of brass frost plugs so won't have any problem with them rusting.

Now how do I get these to come out. The only way I can think of is to use a big socket and hammer them in but if I do that will they fall into the water channel and will I be able to get them out. Is this the right approach it or is there another way.

Thanks.

 

You can knock them into the water jacket and then turn them sideways, crush them with a big pair of pliers, and pull them out.

Another way is to use an auto body dent puller.

Brass ones are an EXCELLENT idea. That's all I'll use.

 

I don't have a dent puller so will go with knocking them in. Thanks.

Yes the brass is the only way to go as they will never leak again.

 

A hammer and a screwdriver or punch. Punch in one side until it turns sideways then grab it with some pliers and pull it out.

Put some form-a-gasket sealer on the new plugs when you put them in.

 

Good one with the gasket seal, didn't think of that . Thanks.

 

I remember way back when I was in High School, my auto shop teacher said always put aircraft grade permatex on the frost plugs or brown silicone. I guess the brown hardens, and the black stays rubbery when dry. I havn't seen aircraft grade permatex in the auto parts stores in a few years. We also used it on the head bolts, since they went into the water jackets.

 

I will see if I can get permatex.

Thanks.

 

Permatex 1 or 2. I can't remember which one hardens up. Either will work.

 

Permatex 1 hardens, and 2 does not.

 

No doubt there is some product line equivalent to Permatex available on your side of the pond... engines need pretty much the same chemical ingredients regardless of location on the globe. Whatever product is commonly used for this purpose on any other engine over there, will work on yours.