Cadillac & LaSalle Club Discussion Forum

Cadillac & LaSalle Club Forums => Technical / Authenticity => Topic started by: pauldridge on September 27, 2012, 08:34:33 PM

Title: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: pauldridge on September 27, 2012, 08:34:33 PM
Last Sunday evening I was barrelling along the interstate in my '59 Jaguar when I heard a loud metallic clang.  As it turns out, I've had a slight weep around one of my block core (freeze or Welsh) plugs.  Soon as I heard the noise, my first thought was that plug might have blown.  Pulled off at the exit and shut her down quickly.  Yep, sure enough, that plug was completely gone from the block (as well as all my coolant).

While asking on the Jag forum for any hints on replacement, someone suggested using the Dorman copper plugs, which have a tightening bolt to insure it won't come out.  My order came today, and the installation took all of 15 minutes, including cleaning up the recess in the block.  These things look great! (pic below).  They can be had for about $4 each (or as much as $29 if you buy from the wrong place).

Now I want to use these in the 346 flathead I'm currently rebuilding.  Unfortunately, my block is at the machine shop.  Wonder if anyone knows the diameter and quantity of plugs used in the Caddy?

Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: John Washburn CLC 1067 Sadly deceased. on September 27, 2012, 09:58:11 PM
Paul,

I do and have one in it original package. But you have to share where to get thses first, the low priced ones. Then I will post a picture of the same unit and size.

John Washburn
Title: Re: Dorman Freeze Plug Sources
Post by: pauldridge on September 29, 2012, 08:00:11 PM
QuoteI do and have one in it original package. But you have to share where to get thses first, the low priced ones. Then I will post a picture of the same unit and size.

John Washburn

Sure, heh heh... no secret:

First I went to the Dorman site to find the part number of the specific diameter I needed http://www.dormanproducts.com/gsearch.aspx?type=keyword&q=expansion+plugs (http://www.dormanproducts.com/gsearch.aspx?type=keyword&q=expansion+plugs)

Then found a source at www.partsgeek.com (http://www.partsgeek.com)  These particular ones I purchased were 1 7/8" diameter (with, ironically, metric sizes on the tightening nuts) and come in lots of 5 @ $3.60 each.  It was well under $30 for 5 and shipping.

Partsgeek uses the same parts numbers as Dorman, but it can be a bitch to find these on their site since they want a car year and model before giving you the part.. I think I just stumbled onto Partsgeek doing a google search for my desired Dorman part.

Now I see looking at www.summitracing.com (http://www.summitracing.com) their pricing isn't so bad, it is also for qty 5, not one, @ $24.95, and easier to find.  Just search for Dorman ###-### and it will pop up. 
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: John Washburn CLC 1067 Sadly deceased. on September 29, 2012, 10:28:42 PM
Phil,

Tried to attach picture of the Droman Core plug but the web page won't let me... Pictures are small enough to post so not sure what is going on.

Have not been able to find these plugs, perhaps you will have better luck...
Dorman 1 3/4"
Part # DC 11 SP

They probably still make but under a different parts number!!

Was going to send to your e-mail but could not find you in the directory. So if you want the pictures send you e-mail.

John Washburn
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: John Washburn CLC 1067 Sadly deceased. on September 30, 2012, 06:16:29 PM
Trying to send picture again.

jw
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Source
Post by: pauldridge on October 02, 2012, 11:22:46 AM
John thanks for the pic, and the dimension

Here's the link oin the Dorman site for the 1 3/4" plug http://www.dormanproducts.com/p-28443-568-011.aspx (http://www.dormanproducts.com/p-28443-568-011.aspx)

It is Dorman part number 568-011.  One source is Amazon.. although not specified in this listing, they seem to come in packs of 5 so I assume the price is for qty 5

http://www.amazon.com/Dorman-568011-Expansion-Plug-568-011/dp/B005GMAAQQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1349191210&sr=8-3&keywords=dorman+568-011 (http://www.amazon.com/Dorman-568011-Expansion-Plug-568-011/dp/B005GMAAQQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1349191210&sr=8-3&keywords=dorman+568-011)
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: Bob Hoffmann CLC#96 on October 02, 2012, 12:50:16 PM
Phil,
Are those brass or steel? Are you willing to accept steel? Advise, Bob
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: John Washburn CLC 1067 Sadly deceased. on October 02, 2012, 01:18:41 PM
Phil,

Looks like you are correct packs of 5.

Rockauto.com has them for $2.98 each, but you have to buy 5.

O'Reilly Auto Parts has them for $3.98 each but again you have to buy 5.

For me Tax vs shipping makes the cost a wash.

Thanks for the help

John Washburn

Bob, They are copper...
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: dirkdaddy on November 28, 2012, 01:03:00 PM
I installed the "correct" freeze plugs in my flathead LaSalle and had one blow out @ 5psi under pressure testing the system.  ???  They are convex without a rim, and with the flange on the inside of the block pretty much requires one to install them with the convex side out - plus the mfg. lettering is on that side. I used Permatex the gasket coating old school stuff as was advised, but it blew out after some testing. My dad whos nearly 80 was subsequently telling me I should have hit the center of them with a punch to "spread them" and keep them from popping out.
Any input guys?
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: John Washburn CLC 1067 Sadly deceased. on November 28, 2012, 01:52:12 PM
Dirk,

Yep got smack them to seal the core plug otherwise as you have figured out the fall out.

Trust your dad.

That is why I use the copper ones that have a nut to tighen them up from Dorman.

Good Luck
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on January 28, 2013, 02:42:07 AM
Hi Folks.
As far as I can see,the Brass plugs to 472 & 500 Cadillac fits.
Trying to put in a photo,but,???
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: kkarrer on January 28, 2013, 04:18:35 PM
Right, smack 'em in the center (convex side out), but I'd also recommend putting some of the "slow" JB weld around them and be certain that the inner surface is clean.  One of mine blew out and really overheated the engine and cost me a tow.  I have some of the original style Dormans if someone needs them.
Ken Karrer 1941 6227D coupe
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on January 28, 2013, 09:27:39 PM
Hi.
JB weld,???? Tell me what that is.
Thanks,,,sjocad ;D
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: kkarrer on January 29, 2013, 09:28:05 AM
JB Weld is an epoxy that is sold at places like Home Depot and Lowes in their paint and adhesives aisle.  It comes in two types.  One is quicker setting.  You want to use the slower setting stuff.  Once it sets up it can be drilled and tapped and holds up to high heat and chemicals like gasoline and oil.  After cleaning the surfaces, mix a little JB and smear it on both surfaces and then put the plug in place and strike the center with a punch and hammer.  I then take a rag and dip it in solvent and wipe off the excess.  I don't try to get it too clean because after 24 hours I paint it with the Cadillac green engine paint.
Ken Karrer 1941 6227D coupe
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: Classic on January 29, 2013, 01:34:51 PM
I see you are from Norway (Norge).  You can buy JB Weld from Westfalia in the UK (a mail order house): http://www2.westfalia.net/shops/tools/adhesives_and_glues/adhesives/2_component_glue/702795-jb_weld_adhesive.htm (http://www2.westfalia.net/shops/tools/adhesives_and_glues/adhesives/2_component_glue/702795-jb_weld_adhesive.htm).
or you can Google JB Weld on Google.no.  I think it's probably available in your country too.
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: pauldridge on January 30, 2013, 06:08:43 AM
Dorman Copper plugs...
One caveat... because of the extra thickness of these plugs (with the bolt in the center) I found the starter could not install, so had to remove it and use a regular convex plug.  Seems like there was one on the other side where I ran into the same problem.  Check clearance with accessories before using the Dorman
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on February 02, 2013, 08:30:02 AM
Thanks FOLKS.. :D
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on February 04, 2013, 12:24:03 PM
Hi all of you.
WOW,today I found something Crazy.
First;I found the orginal Freeze plugs on Ebay today.Oval.I pulled all 3 on left side out,and HO..A LOT of dirt..
Number on them was 1-47/64. Then I found one in my garage with number  P 103,,, 1|-47/64.So that fit.Its oval too.

Now lissen.On left side,inside first hole from front,it was a "vire"or looked like an OLD welding rod inside there.
It was from the front,and back to the plug number TWO...?????????????????(middle) Its 3 one the side you know.
What in the heck is THAT,??? Heatsensor from Dach,????
I have never seen anything like it.Its loose too,but I was afraid to take it out.
Do You Steve Passmore know,?? You have for sure overholed your Lasalle 38.
Anybody who can tell me,??? I havent taken the heads of yet...This os crazy,hoho :-[ ;D ::)

Regards Crazy old cadman from Norway

Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on February 06, 2013, 07:57:07 AM
Nobody could help me,????
Regards,,,svein
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: The Tassie Devil(le) on February 06, 2013, 06:21:21 PM
The one with the "wire" attached could well be a worn out "Heating Element" for pre-heating the engine coolant in the COLD Winter areas of USA to keep the block from cracking when the coolant freezes.

Bruce. >:D
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: Tom Beaver on February 07, 2013, 12:25:17 AM
In the past the foundry used to in-bed wire in the sand molds to act as reinforcing bars.  After casting the block they would flush the sand out of the block cavity and usually removed the wire also, but not always.  I have seen this a time or two.  This is most likely what you see and you can just remove it and throw it away.

Tom Beaver
Title: Re: Freeze Plug Diameter
Post by: sjocad on February 09, 2013, 10:41:18 AM
I found it.
It was an old velding rod" there.May be lost when they took the dirt out.Now its ok.
Thanks folks... :-[