Engine: Freeze Plug Replacement - 289

[fpstude]

Our Hawk had coolant leaking from a couple freeze plugs. It turns out the car had rubber style plugs. Removing them was quite a task. I would not recommend them.



I'm going to use a brass cup type replacement. After cleaning the metal surfaces, is it recommended to use any sealant around the cup? what type?

The interior of the block appears to be fairly clean, I'm fortunate.



Thanks for your input.

[brngarage]

I have also had difficulty removing old HARDENED rubber freeze plugs. Despite the ease of installation, I would never use them.

[StudeRich]

I just GOTTA know WHAT that crazy "Strap" thing is across the Core Plug? Or is that some kind of installer Tool?

A Brass Core Plug for a Stude. should look like any normal Cup shaped Core Plug for late 1962, '63 & '64 Studes. 1 1/2 Inch.

Yes Number 2 Permatex will work fine.
The Factory used a brush-able, thinner type like Aviation Gasket Sealer, called "Studebaker Perfect Seal".

[rockne10]

I just GOTTA know WHAT that crazy "Strap" thing is across the Core Plug? Or is that some kind of installer Tool?

Rich, methinks what you may be looking at is an internal view of the block; illuminated view of the space between two of the cylinder castings. Don't know how Perry managed that shot but it's definitely cool.

[fpstude]

Thanks for the Number 2 Permatex recommendation. As Rockne described, what looks like a strap is the casting beyond the two cylinder castings. I'm just happy the exhaust pipe was easy to remove so there was room to work, as the engine is in the car. Stainless steel is great. It's amazing the photos one can take with a smart phone.

Again, thanks for the quick response.

[bensherb]

Ok , so where can you buy a 1 1/2" BRASS freeze plug? Seems nobody offers them by size anymore, just sets that are vehicle specific. Online, shipping costs as much as the product too.

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

You could always try an established Studebaker parts source. I always have them in stock and I would think other parts dealers would also.

[fpstude]

I got mine down the street at Carquest Auto Parts. They are part of Advance Auto Parts. Their branches have many of them.

[StudeRich]

If you can get the 289 Ford Sets with 6 Pieces I think they work, NOT a joke ... actually 289 Ford!

It may take more than 1 Set, because I don't think they use 6, anybody know?

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

Small block Fords did use 1-1/2” soft plugs, but these would be the shallow cup type, suitable for mid ‘62 through ‘64 Studebaker V-8 engines. Earlier Studebaker V-8s would use 1-1/2” disc type soft plugs.
Find an auto parts store that has an attached machine shop. The shop will have a good selection of sizes/types/materials to support their operation.

[swvalcon]

62-64 use the same plug as a Buick 3.8 V-6 available at any parts store or rockauto.

[TWChamp]

It used to be you could walk over to the Dorman cabinet and open the tray of core plugs, and pick your size and type of plug.
Lately I find many of the auto stores don't have the Dorman trays any more.

[64V-K7]

Lately I find many of the auto stores don't have the Dorman trays any more.

Right, it's additional evidence of how China is reshaping our lives..

[tsenecal]

Mine came from a Studebaker vendor (all brass disc type). At the house in three days, and reasonably priced.

[Jeffry Cassel]

I have always used Permatex but my machinist said he uses red threadlocker on freeze plugs