engine block drain plugs

[kenneth bingener NCRS#38563]

Could someone tell me where the coolant drain plugs are on a 58? Are they square on a 58 or regular hex heads? Saw hex heads but no square bolts on my original-crud block. I want to do a simple garden hose flushing since I'm replacing the lower hose due to the fan belt gouging it and I thought it would be a good time to do this. Any tips on the plug removal/installation appreciated. Thanks, Ken

[Bob R.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

The drain plugs are at the bottom on each side of the block. Use caution and don't force them. The block is over 40 years old and they may never have been removed before. You could easily snap them off. Once removed you will probably not get any water out of the openings. The are probably blocked with debris. You will have to push a screw drived through the crud. Once again if they don't come out with moderate pressure I would not try to force them out.

[Art B.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

The drain plugs are hex head.

[Duke W.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

Bottom of the block one each side about halfway down the length. On my '63 they are covered by the ignition shields, which have to be loosened to access the plugs.

The plugs are soft steel and can round off easily, so use only a six-point socket on them. Don't be surprised if nothing comes out once the plugs are off as debris often clogs them, especially if they have never or rarely been removed, which is common, but as suggested previously a small tool can be used to dig out debris.

When you reinstall them use some plumbers and steam fitters pipe joint compound on the threads and just torque them down snug - maybe 10 lb-ft.

Duke

[Patrick H.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

I had to use heat from a torch to remove mine. When I replaced them, I used brass ones that won't rust into place.

Just a thought.

PH

[Craig S.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

Im's with Patrick....just a little heating of the block around the plug with the oxy/acet set at a cool flame,keep the flame moving, and they come right out. Same holds true for the oil galley plugs....they are very easy to destroy otherwise. And I installed brass plugs in the water drains as well, And use brass freeze plugs in a rebuild...Craig

[Clem Z.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

using a motorcycle type hammer driven impact driver with a 6 point impact socket will work better than just pulling on a wrench. the shock of the impact driver seems to help loosen tight or rusted bolts and plugs. soaking down with PB blaster before hand will help also.

[kenneth bingener NCRS#38563]

Re: engine block drain plugs

Thanks Gentlemen, The plugs came out easily with a little PB Blaster and a ratchet. I didn't even have to poke through any crud to get it to drain. Thanks for the knowledge, Ken

[John H.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

Ken -

Use a little anti-seize on them when you re-install them so there's no trauma involved next time you pull them.

[Patrick H.]

Re: engine block drain plugs

I actually used a little ARP thread sealant with the teflon. I didn't want them to stick or leak, even though I replaced with brass.