Jeff,
New cup type plugs should last a good long while. As others have
explained, they are not really freeze plugs at all, but access holes
which are used to remove the core sand after the sand casting process.
Some racers have used straps bolted across the plugs to retain them.
This requires drilling & tapping on each side of each hole. Others have
tapped the holes for screw in pipe plugs. Some, even spot weld them.
Many use the standard plugs. There are also All metal expansion plugs
available that expand when a nut on the outside is tightened. Similar to
the rubber plugs. I would trust the standard cup plugs more than these.
The standard cup type plugs are pretty reliable if properly installed. I
use a bit of "Permatex 3H Aviation Sealer" on them. Drive them in with
some sort of punch that is a snug fit on the plug I.D. A socket wrench
of the correct size works pretty well as a driver if you are careful.
You can also buy special drivers for the plugs if you are so inclined.
The only secret is to have the inside of the holes thoroughly clean &
use some sort of corrosion inhibitor in the coolant. 50% antifreeze is a
good inhibitor. Most plug failures are due to rust.
Dave Russell
BN2
JJSandSMS@cs.com wrote:
> We cleaning a BJ8 block and have removed the freeze plugs. New ones will be
> installed (cup type). But are there removable expansion type plugs available
> to install at the rear of the engine. I understand that if the rear plugs
> start to leak it is almost impossible to remove and replace them without
>removing
> the motor. Temporary rubber type plugs are available but these are only to
> be used in an emergency. There has to be a removable plug that is more
> permanent. Anyone one know of these or is there a slick way of removing and
> installing a standard type rear plugs without engine removal?
>
> Also any secrets as to installing the cup type plugs so they do not leak?
> What is the best sealant to use? Is the blue form-a-gasket type material a
>good
> application?
>
> Broader question? Are the purpose of the plugs only to protect against
> freezing? We live in a warm climate and it never freezes so are they needed?
> If
> not, is there a different type of plug that can be installed that is more
> permanent? I am not thinking of doing this but are just wondering. Do
>purpose
> built racing motors have freeze plugs? What about Healeys that are/were
>raced?
> What is done with those plugs to prevent coolant leakage? Is the standard
> plug up to the task?
>
> Thanks
>
> Jeff,
> 1964 BJ8
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