Exhaust Manifold Drain Plugs

[Lance]

I like the thread going on about anti-freeze and thought I would add a question about how often people remove the drain plugs on the back of the exhaust manifolds. I tried to get them out a couple of times but didn't have the right tool. Finally I made a concerted effort to get them out in about 2000 for my 1987 Prostar 190 and they were both loaded with rust particles. I flushed for about 5 minutes before it finally became completely clear (or very close at least). I did it again a couple of years later and more had formed but not nearly as much. I would say the first time I got a full cup of particles.

Anyone have similar experience and / or recommendations on how often this should be performed? I assume eventually this could impact the flow rate of coolant (water) although I never had any temperature problems.

Lance

[jimmer2880]

I do mine during my winterization process. When they're out - I also stick a hose in the front & use a wire coat-hanger at the rear to get out all flakes, etc.

[jimmer2880]

Ohh yea - the "special tool" on my 95 is just a 1/2" drive ratchet (no socket)

[Lance]

Jimmer2880, that is my special tool now that I have the replacement plug with a square socket. The previous plugs had a hex socket and I took a long hex nut and put one end in the plug and the other end in the socket and it twisted the nut appart. I ended up getting a hardened piece of hex stock that did the trick. Since then I haven't had a problem now that I wrap in teflon tape and have the square type drive type.

Lance

[bfinley]

I use a 1/2" rachet too!!

[jimmer2880]

Originally Posted by Lance

Jimmer2880, that is my special tool now that I have the replacement plug with a square socket. The previous plugs had a hex socket and I took a long hex nut and put one end in the plug and the other end in the socket and it twisted the nut appart. I ended up getting a hardened piece of hex stock that did the trick. Since then I haven't had a problem now that I wrap in teflon tape and have the square type drive type.

Lance

Forget the teflon tape, get some "neversieze" & dope it up. Works better than teflon for these purposes.

Does anyone know what we "should" be using for the hex plugs? I want to winterize myself this year and have no idea what to use to get those plugs out. Thanks!!!

[OhioProstar]

Should be a torx....maybe JimN knows the size.

[Lance]

Sears sells a socket with the harden hex insert that is able to get the hex plugs out. I don't remember the size but they have a whole range of sizes. That is what my brother has been using on his. Once I got them out the first time I replaced mine with the kind with square heads so I could just use the ratchet as others have discussed on this board.

I don't think these are the same as torx as they are more star shaped aren't they?

Still have the question though of how often this maintenance should be done.

[OhioProstar]

I take mine out every year to keep the exhuast manifolds from cracking at the seams. Unless you run a lot of AV through I would suggest it.