Freeze plug popped out!

[bill evans]

i have a 4.3 LX mercruiser engine that the port side front freeze/core plug has popped out. it is directly behing the motor mount on the front port side of the water jacket. i found it after putting on muffs and starting for the first time this year. i'm sure it is due to poor winterizing, but am hoping that i could be lucky enough not to have any further damage. <br /><br />can anyone give me any advice of how to replace it? would i be ok to block up engine long enough to insert a new freeze plug? there is no water in my oil, but i want to replace freeze plug asap in case i still have leaks from possible cracking.<br /><br />any help, advice or prior knowledge will be greatly appreciated.

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Freeze plug popped out!

I take a big socket and carefully start it squarely. Then tap it lightly until it is set into the block. Hope it hasnt done any more damage. From all of this I have heard this year I would suggest learning how and doing your own winterizing. Welcome to iboats

 

[Don S]

Re: Freeze plug popped out!

About the only thing you can do is install a new core plug, and either pressure test the system, or run it and see if you have any leaks either external, or see if you get water in the oil.

 

[bill evans]

Re: Freeze plug popped out!

thanks for replies guys, i plan on installing a new plug tonight and firing it up and praying for the best.<br /><br />will let you know the results!

 

[bill evans]

Re: Freeze plug popped out!

well, it looks like i lucked out. i used a cherry picker to hold engine while i took off motor mount and replaced freeze plug. put everything back together and ran to temp with muffs. didn't see any leaks on engine from any cracks, so i feel pretty confident i may be ok.<br /><br />the alternator was squealing a bit, but i can deal with that. brand new alt, so just need to get tension right.<br /><br />thanks for the input and happy boating to all.