Newbie here...freeze plug question
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New User
Joined: Nov 2008
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Newbie here...freeze plug question
Hi all,
Great forum! Not much of a computer guy, so I just found it...
I have a '68 F-100 with the original 360 in it. Naturally, the freeze plugs are starting to leak (well, one anyway). I have owned 4 old Fords in my past (2 '67s, a '70, and an '84) and I have luckily never had a freeze plug problem. Evedently, my luck has run out.
It's not leaking badly -- just a few drips a day probably. What are the chances of the whole plug letting go all at once? Will the leak just worsen or should I worry about the whole damn plug blowing out between here and nowhere? It looks like it has been leaking for a while judging by the water stains on the block, I guess I just never noticed it among the oil and tranny leaks!
A rebuild is in the cards, but not until next summer.
Know you guys don't have a crystal ball or anything, but I've never had to deal with this issue so I don't have a feel for how long I can get away without adressing the problem.
Any input is appreciated!
Much thanks,
Craig
Great forum! Not much of a computer guy, so I just found it...
I have a '68 F-100 with the original 360 in it. Naturally, the freeze plugs are starting to leak (well, one anyway). I have owned 4 old Fords in my past (2 '67s, a '70, and an '84) and I have luckily never had a freeze plug problem. Evedently, my luck has run out.
It's not leaking badly -- just a few drips a day probably. What are the chances of the whole plug letting go all at once? Will the leak just worsen or should I worry about the whole damn plug blowing out between here and nowhere? It looks like it has been leaking for a while judging by the water stains on the block, I guess I just never noticed it among the oil and tranny leaks!
A rebuild is in the cards, but not until next summer.
Know you guys don't have a crystal ball or anything, but I've never had to deal with this issue so I don't have a feel for how long I can get away without adressing the problem.
Any input is appreciated!
Much thanks,
Craig
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 122
Likes: 0
I had a leaking one in my 68 that i just bought. Easy to get to, but i couldn't get that sucker out! I ended up paying the local mechanic $70 to replace it and refill coolant. Luckly he didn't have to pull the motor to get to it!
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 785
From: Simi Valley, CA
Freeze Plug
Welcome to FTE
6) C8AZ6026A .. Brass Freeze Plug-Cup Shaped-Use in Block / 1 3/4" O.D.
Application: 1958/76 FE (352/360/390, etc) engines.
1968/74 429 / 1968/97 460 / 1960/83 144/170/200/250 I-6's.
6) C8AZ6026A .. Brass Freeze Plug-Cup Shaped-Use in Block / 1 3/4" O.D.
Application: 1958/76 FE (352/360/390, etc) engines.
1968/74 429 / 1968/97 460 / 1960/83 144/170/200/250 I-6's.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
Likes: 74
From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
Craig, Water in some parts of the country causes corrosion. I bought a Taurus once that kept over heating and I couldn't figure why. Opened it up one day and all of the fins were gone off the water pump. The coolant was always rusty looking in that car.
I recommend when replacing the coolant, get grocery distilled water and pre mix it to 50/50 with the antifreeze before installing. Keep 50/50 mixed on hand for any topping off.
If the budget is really tight you can get an expandable plug to make it through. Use a large screwdriver or punch and hit the plug in one place to try to make it turn in the opening. That way you should be able to pry it out. IMHO
John
I recommend when replacing the coolant, get grocery distilled water and pre mix it to 50/50 with the antifreeze before installing. Keep 50/50 mixed on hand for any topping off.
If the budget is really tight you can get an expandable plug to make it through. Use a large screwdriver or punch and hit the plug in one place to try to make it turn in the opening. That way you should be able to pry it out. IMHO
John
