Expansion/Freeze Plug: Service and Repair

ENGINE CORE AND OIL GALLERY PLUGS





Using a blunt tool such as a drift and a hammer, strike the bottom edge of the cup plug. With the cup plug rotated, grasp firmly with pliers or other suitable tool and remove plug (Fig. 2).

CAUTION: Do not drive cup plug into the casting as restricted cooling can result and cause serious engine problems.

Thoroughly clean inside of cup plug hole in cylinder block or head. Be sure to remove old sealer. Lightly coat inside of cup plug hole with Mopar Stud and Bearing Mount. Make certain the new plug is cleaned of all oil or grease. Using proper drive plug, drive plug into hole so that the sharp edge of the plug is at least 0.5 mm (0.020 inch) inside the lead-in chamfer.
It is not necessary to wait for curing of the sealant. The cooling system can be refilled and the vehicle placed in service immediately.





To ensure engine gasket sealing, proper surface preparation must be performed, especially with the use of aluminum engine components and multi-layer steel cylinder head gaskets.
Never use these to clean gasket surfaces: (Fig. 3)
- Metal scraper.
- Abrasive pad or paper to clean cylinder block and head.
- High speed power tool with an abrasive pad or a wire brush.

NOTE: Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gaskets require a scratch free sealing surface.

Only use these for cleaning gasket surfaces: (Fig. 3)
- Solvent or a commercially available gasket remover
- Plastic or wood scraper.
- Drill motor with 3M Roloc Bristle Disc (white or yellow).

CAUTION: Excessive pressure or high RPM (beyond the recommended speed), can damage the sealing surfaces. The mild (white, 120 grit) bristle disc is recommended. If necessary, the medium (yellow, 80 grit) bristle disc may be used on cast iron surfaces with care.