Just about to send the block in for rebore and was wondering if the freeze plugs should be replaced as routine, they look fine with no corrosion on the outside but obiously cant comment on the insides. My gut feel tells me to replace as its a bugger to change later although I have had plugs replaced on vw 4 cylinder motor before and leaked which I managed to replace with motor in situ. Are these plugs stainless or normal plated steel? Thanks
replace them all as routine during a rebuild. You can also clean up some of the water passages while they are out.
For the money, i'd definitely replace them. As tektrader said, removing them allows you to get in and thoroughly clean out the water passages in the block. You can buy universal fit 30mm brass or stainless steel freeze plugs for apporoximately $1.50ea at your local auto store (coventrys, auto1, supercheap, etc).
I use Loctite 620 retaining compound, some people prefer to use Stag. Also stay away from stainless steel welsh plugs, alot of the cheap generic ones will corrode after only a few years.
i dont think stag is any good. it just goes hard. loctite do some pretty good sealants or retaining compounds for the job. or u can use good old aviation sealant
if they are pure steel and non nickel coated yes...but many of what you buy now a days are nickle coated and do just fine. I use both brass and the steel versions and both hold up just fine. The sealant used is made by permatex and looks like (this is going to sound gross) thick runny pasty shit. It has a unique semi burn smell to it as well. The name escapes me but you can find it at any local auto parts store where they have the silicone and other rtv/loctite products.
