How to change Freeze plug on 1996 Monte Carlo z34?

Answer 1

Drain the cooling system by turning the radiator draincock loose at the bottom of the radiator. Caution: Most if not all are an left hand thread. Drain the block, if you can get the block plugs out. Be careful as sometimes these will twist off. If you don't or can't do this be ready to lose some coolant. Once you get enough room to get to the plug, tap in gently on one side only, using a flat blade screwdriver. You want to accomplish either the plug pushing in on one side the other coming out or punching a hole through the plug. If one side comes out reach in with pliers, channel locks etc. and pull the plug out. If you punch a hole, try twisting and getting underneath to a point you can get pliers, channel locks etc. on it and pull it free. Don't allow the plug to drop into the block as it can't stay there. If it drops in and is left there it may cause a localized hot spot and may cause engine damage. Clean the hole, a light skin of silicone, try to find a socket to fit the plug, anything will work as long as you excess even pressure and tap in to the hole till the raised edge of the plug is very slightly below the edge of the hole. Don't tap in too far (see above). Close the block plugs and radiator drain cock and refill the radiator. Start the engine and wait for it to expel all the air from the system. System will burp quite few times be prepared to catch overflowing coolant. Get engine to operating temperature and thermostat is open and coolant is flowing. Install radiator cap, back car or pull car forward to get out of wet spot and look for leaks.