Freeze plugs out on '87 Mercruiser 4.3 alpha 1

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jrod

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Started getting boat ready for spring and found two freeze plugs in the bilge after starting engine and running it for about 10-15 mins. it did freeze this winter here. Checked dip stick for milky oil and seemed fine. When referring to milky is that talking about the color or the consistency of the oil. Anyways I took the oil filter off and oil seemed fine. Drained a little from the pan and it seemed fine. No discoloration just a little thin. Is that a good sign that I don't have cracked block? how do I get the freeze pugs back in? Thanks.:redface:
 
Bt Doctur

Bt Doctur

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Re: Freeze plugs out on '87 Mercruiser 4.3 alpha 1

Well, if there not deformed just clean the holes, apply sealant, install with a suitable driver(1/2 socket). If a motor mount has to be removed, remove the drive, support motor, install plugs, realign motor, install drive
 
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jboozer66

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Re: Freeze plugs out on '87 Mercruiser 4.3 alpha 1

Bt Doctur said:
Well, if there not deformed just clean the holes, apply sealant, install with a suitable driver(1/2 socket). If a motor mount has to be removed, remove the drive, support motor, install plugs, realign motor, install drive
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Unfortunatey i lost a freeze plug recently as well. Motor seems fine, no milk - runs good. I missed one of the drain plugs when storing short term. The missing freeze plug is behind the motor mount (of course). I noticed you recommended removing the drive unit, is there a reason for that? I was assuming if i only removed the one mount that the motor wouldn't rock back or get out of alignment. Any advice? Thanks in advance.
 
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Gary H NC

Gary H NC

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Re: Freeze plugs out on '87 Mercruiser 4.3 alpha 1

Anytime a motor mount is removed the drive needs to be off.
Then you better have an alignment tool to check the coupler alignment before bolting the drive back on. If not you will most likely to be buying a coupler and drive shaft this coming season.

Go to the Adults only thread and download your manual.
Happy reading..
 
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jboozer66

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Re: Freeze plugs out on '87 Mercruiser 4.3 alpha 1

Thanks for the advice Gary. This might be one for the local shop then. I need to have my seal replaced in my drive anyway.... might as well let them knock it all out at the same time.
 
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