Freeze plug removal

5

'51 Special

Active Member
In the process of overhauling my 263, I need to replace at least some, and perhaps all, of the freeze plugs. I have two problems:

1) I can't get the freeze plugs out. Drilled a hole in the middle, tried to pry on the plug. But it is badly corroded, and just collapsed. Tried another, same result. There are several “how to” videos on the ‘net, all make it look easy, but none show removal of the cup-type freeze plugs used on the 263. Anyone who has done this, I’d really appreciate a suggestion.
2) Where do you buy replacements? I haven’t checked all of my usual suppliers, but have yet to find any listed for the 263.
 
try different types of pry tools, they usually will come out without any problem. Anything that can catch hold of an edge or someplace that will move them at least so you can grab with vicegrips etc. When they are rusty the center usually just crumbles,then you can stick a pry tool and pop it out or tilt it on one side. If one is rusty it means the rest are also you may see some that have already been replaced.
 
39CENT said:
try different types of pry tools, they usually will come out without any problem. Anything that can catch hold of an edge or someplace that will move them at least so you can grab with vicegrips etc. When they are rusty the center usually just crumbles,then you can stick a pry tool and pop it out or tilt it on one side. If one is rusty it means the rest are also you may see some that have already been replaced.
Click to expand...

Thanks. I did that, using several progressively heavier pry tools. No luck, and I really didn't want to put too much point force on the block. What eventually worked was to use a hacksaw on the rim, carefully stopping before I reached the casting. Then I just taped a screwdriver to break the rim of the freeze plug. Once loosened, a channel-lock pliers pulled the first one out, On the rest I first used a small cold chisel to expand the hole, and so reduced my hacksaw time. And, they are now all out.

And thanks, guyopel. When NAPA opens tomorrow, I'll be there.
 
Type in antique Buick parts and a lot of companies will come up. Most of them sell complete freeze plug sets and some offer them in brass also.
 
Weld a nut in the center of the freeze plug and then screw slide hammer onto nut. Give that a try. It has worked for me on many engines.
 
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