Freeze plugs...how to replace

[Kyle1!]

hello, My leak behind the water pump is a bad freeze plug instead of the connection between the WP and bypass pipes. What is the proper way to replace a freeze plug? Do you pry it out and then pound a new one in? Of course I will use a small hammer The car is an 88

Thanks

Brian

[marc780]

Well they are made of brass or stainless steel. And they look kind of like a bottle cap except thinner. Before you rip it out, note the following two things for later:
1. Indented side out or not?
2. How far is this plug driven into the block?

Not too much of a trick to pull it out, just drill a hole into it and screw in a sheet metal screw and yank it out, use a claw hammer. Or just carefully bash a hole in the plug and use a screwdriver to pry it out. I know the clearance is undoubtedly very tight but they come out easily.
Just remember, the plug is thin and there is engine cast iron behind it!!! So the most important thing is to use care not to drill too far! Id buy the new one first then you know what you are dealing with.

When installing the new one, choose a stainless steel plug if available. Otherwise a brass one will do. And find a socket that just fits inside the new freeze plug to drive it in, USUAlly (but not always) they go indented side outwards. You can coat the edges with sealer if you have it, and then carefully tap it in.

[Dave's]

Pretty much. Might use a piece of wood dowel or brass rod about the size of the hole in the block as a punch but it's probably not needed if you're careful. Hammer it in so the lip is flush with the block or just a bit more. (Look at the one you're taking out.)

[Kyle1!]

I ordered a couple of freeze plugs. These are the brass ones and are pretty thick. I knew there wasn't much to it but I wanted to ask to be sure. I plan on doing the WP/timing belt while inside and hopefully I'll be able to get another 50k out of the car. I have been driving SAAB 9000's for the last 7yrs and this is my first camry. Dealer wanted $900 for the repair Guess what I'm doing this weekend

Brian

[Hajoca]

Well, make sure you get a non hardening type sealant (permatex #2) or Loctite pipe dope.

[marc780]

OMFG Kyle $900 - Highway robbery! I wouldnt have them do it either.