Wilsons Sandbox

Jerry- Years ago, I found myself in this situation, although I didn't end up replacing the rear freeze plug until I pulled the engine on my '53 TD. I was inspired to replace the freeze plugs under the exhuast manifold when I added antifreeze to the coolant and found that it oozed out around the freeze plugs and ruined the nice paint on the block. Alas. The point is that I pulled the manifold, prized out the old plugs as described, and then discovered that it would be prudent to clean off the rust and effluvium around the plug seats. A wire brush, and some emery, did the job nicely, although I doubt that you would have much room on the back TC plug. Anyway, after the clean-up, I decided that it wouldn't be a bad idea to smear some Permatex around the perimeter of the new plug before whanging it home. An additional reason for this precaution was my use of a Dorman adjustable plug that was just a scosh oversize (taken care of by chucking it up in an electric drill and dressing it with a file/emery), just in case. All that I can report is that the oozing ceased. I followed the same procedure on my '60 Volvo PV 544 with similar success, even though the plug on the rear of the head was a real challenge. Bill Earhart TC 0735 Hermosa Beach, Ca.