Freeze Plug Popped Into Block

[50 Coupe]

Well, replacing freeze plugs, all going well then of course the last one got sideways on me and dropped into the block. Rear driver side. Can't see it or get to it. Tried with a telescoping magnet but no luck. Guess I'm gonna have to leave it in there. I'm hoping it wont to cause any blockage in coolant flow. Anyone have any experience with this?

 

[pnora]

I like to get them out. But I am sure there are many out there that were left inside. You most likely will not have a problem. I would take some more time and see if it will come out.

 

[R413]

Find it. Engine in car or on a stand?

 

[50 Coupe]

Find it. Engine in car or on a stand?

Out of the car but sitting on jack stands getting ready to hook the transmission onto it and get it back in. Not really wanting to pull it apart to fish it out. That rear, driver side hole is shallow and not much room to reach into the block like with the other freeze plug holes.

 

[Bighouse]

I fish them back to the hole it goes in and pry it out with a pair of channelock pliers. No big deal. I found them in many engines too, for who knows how long.

 

[pnora]

Out of the car but sitting on jack stands getting ready to hook the transmission onto it and get it back in. Not really wanting to pull it apart to fish it out. That rear, driver side hole is shallow and not much room to reach into the block like with the other freeze plug holes.

If its out then its a no brainer. Get it out even if you have to remove more plugs.

 

[davek]

just my 2 cents

 

[Beekeeper]

if it’s a steel one get it out otherwise once it rusts and starts breaking up you won’t be able to keep a water pump on it,

 

[Bird 426]

Coat hanger massaged, try to hook it. Small mirror, find where it is. This to me is like dropping a screw, washer or something into the fuselage or wing of an airplane, find it. Your life doesn't depend on it, but challenge that it is, find it.

 

[bandit67]

Roll the motor upside down if possible and use compressed air at different access points to dislodge it . Once its flopping around in there a bit, fish it out.

 

[steve340]

Yeah get it out they can cause overheating issues on some engines.

 

[tubalcain]

I've found several core plugs in engines, lost, probably like yours. Do not worry about rust, as I'm sure that you'll use antifreeze with anti-rust ingredients. Overheating- I really doubt it. If you are really vexed about it, a cheap borescope, about $50- $80 will probably allow you to see it and assist in retrieving it. I would leave it and move on.

 

[Krooser]

Well, replacing freeze plugs, all going well then of course the last one got sideways on me and dropped into the block. Rear driver side. Can't see it or get to it. Tried with a telescoping magnet but no luck. Guess I'm gonna have to leave it in there. I'm hoping it wont to cause any blockage in coolant flow. Anyone have any experience with this?

It's at or near the bottom...should not cause any issues.

Many guys you a cement based block filler to strengthen the block...usually poured to the top of the freeze plugs. I have never seen an issue as most of the heat is in the heads.

 

[rickseeman]

I fish them back to the hole it goes in and pry it out with a pair of channelock pliers. No big deal. I found them in many engines too, for who knows how long.

What he said. Works every time. I've never had to leave one in 50 years.

 

[roadrunnerh]

Personally, I would be OBSESSED about getting it out. That plug being in the block would bug the **** out of me.
Keep in mind - there's a fine line between a hobby and mental illness!

 

[eldubb440]

Keep in mind - there's a fine line between a hobby and mental illness!

THIS^^^^^^^^^

it's even worse when you obsess over other people's cars

 

[Bighouse]

THIS^^^^^^^^^

it's even worse when you obsess over other people's cars

The shoemaker with no shoes kinda thing.

 

[Runcharger]

As above, fish it with coat hangar, then when it's near the hole a set of needle nose pliers to pull it out.

 

[Krooser]

I just replaced the plugs in my 318 on the engine stand.

I was taught to use a cape chisel in one side of the plug and push it sideways then pull them out with a pliers .....works everytime

 

[1 Wild R/T]

Personally I always find a way to get them out... But 30+ years ago I worked with the king of flat rate, He never tried to remove them, hell, he wouldn't drain the coolant to change them, He'd drive the new one in without ever touching the old one... IMO complete hack dirtbag.. But he made money & never got complaints about it...