Core plugs

[THORNOGSON]

I think that is what they call them, round blank type thingies on the side of the essex engine block. Aquired second hand engine today and two of the blanks have rusted through. Does this mean an engine strip down to get the rust particles out of the engine? Can they be replaced and what is involved?
Thanks,
G.

[ian8542]

I would have thought the missing metal having rusted from the core plugs is in solution right now. Cast iron block, no problem, just prise them out after draining the coolant. clean the casting hole and fit new ones with a little sealant and tap them in with a socket or drift of the same size as the new core plug. (That is if you can get to them).
Better to replace the lot if you can though.

[homersimpson]

Graham
While you are at it change all the core plugs as some
of them are a swine to get at once the engine is in the car and they are only about 50 pence each.Also take them all out then give a good flush through every hole with a hose pipe as sludge tends to collect in the bottom of the waterways.My engine had been stood for a while and formed a crust on top of the sludge.If you need advice mail me.
Pete VG

[THORNOGSON]

thanks for that Peter, have bought enough plugs to change them all. The three days bank hoilday will be spent doing just what you advise and change fly wheel and as much as we can do towards the engine swap.