318 freeze plugs which ones and how many?

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dibbons

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Need to replace freeze plugs before a used 318 engine install. What size are they? Should I use steel or brass? Sealer or just trust the press fit? Thank you.
 
If there are any where the bellhousing bolts up, change them. It sucks fixing a leak when you have to pull the trans back out.
 
The smaller ones should be 1 1/4" and Rusty already stated the size of the larger ones. Definitely seal them! It's easy to do it now and not so easy to do it later when the engine is in the car.
 
I use red Loctite

and I would agree that brass is best and to just get the whole kit
 
I use grey RTV to seal the steel, never ever had a leak. Many avenues, one destination....... :)
 
What's the best way to remove the freeze plugs (I mean "expansion" plugs, right?). I don't have one, but I read somewhere that a dent puller makes a good tool for this job.
 
Get a hammer and a punch. Take the punch and put it in the corner where the side meets the bottom. Tap it in gently and turn the plug sideways in the bore. Take a pair of channel lock pliers, turn them backwards and grab the side of the plug. "Rock" the back of the pliers against the block and it will pull the plug right out. If you happen to knock a plug into the block, no biggie. Just fish it to the hole and grab it with the pliers and pull it out the same way.

To install find a socket that just fits into the freeze plug. Put the sealer of your choice on it and drive it in using the socket and a hammer until the edges are flush with the block then wipe off the excess sealer.

I have a Ford 400 block I am getting ready for assembly. Maybe I should write up a how to.
 
Get a hammer and a punch. Take the punch and put it in the corner where the side meets the bottom. Tap it in gently and turn the plug sideways in the bore. Take a pair of channel lock pliers, turn them backwards and grab the side of the plug. "Rock" the back of the pliers against the block and it will pull the plug right out. If you happen to knock a plug into the block, no biggie. Just fish it to the hole and grab it with the pliers and pull it out the same way.

To install find a socket that just fits into the freeze plug. Put the sealer of your choice on it and drive it in using the socket and a hammer until the edges are flush with the block then wipe off the excess sealer.

I have a Ford 400 block I am getting ready for assembly. Maybe I should write up a how to.

You should do a series of "how to" videos, doing routine procedures of things like this! I see a lot of people asking how to questions on things that I think are pretty routine!!! The younger guys haven't been around this stuff near as long, and the mentors are few and far between anymore, they need Uncle Rob to help them!! Heck, I'm changing the freeze plugs in an engine right now and it's nice to read a clear, concise post on the subject I'm working on too!! Geof
 
Geof, I'll go look at it and see. I know I removed all the side plugs, but I think I left them in the bellhousing area. All I really need is one.
 
Get a hammer and a punch. Take the punch and put it in the corner where the side meets the bottom. Tap it in gently and turn the plug sideways in the bore. Take a pair of channel lock pliers, turn them backwards and grab the side of the plug. "Rock" the back of the pliers against the block and it will pull the plug right out. If you happen to knock a plug into the block, no biggie. Just fish it to the hole and grab it with the pliers and pull it out the same way.

To install find a socket that just fits into the freeze plug. Put the sealer of your choice on it and drive it in using the socket and a hammer until the edges are flush with the block then wipe off the excess sealer.
This is exactly my method for removal and installation. :cheers:
 

the basic idea.. :)

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cru1X9hbZ20"][HOW TO] Remove Freeze Plugs - YouTube[/ame]


[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QO0gzQuki0A"]How to Install Freeze Plugs - YouTube[/ame]
 
Keep in mind when installing cup plugs to put them deep enough so the top edge is below the chamfer for the hole.

Good write-up RRR....
 
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