QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1998 Ford Explorer and the Freeze plug is shot. The shop told me that it will cost 425$ that I can ill afford. If someone could explain the process to me and if I have to remove the transmission or if there is away to get around that.
ANSWER: There is more than one freeze plug on your Explorer's engine. If it's the one on the back of the engine, removing the transmission is probably necessary. One of those jobs that can cost $425 just to replace a $0.45 part. If it's freeze plug on the side of the engine, it would be easier. To remove them, you have to carefully tap one edge inward with a punch and a hammer in order to "spin" the plug sideways in the bore. Then you can usually pull it out with a pliers, smooth out the bore with emery cloth and wipe it clean, then install the new plug with a coating of red loctite. To install them, I've had good luck with a large socket on the end of a long extension to keep it lined up while tapping it with a hammer. Refill the coolant, run the engine and check for leaks. Hope this answers your question. Good luck,
Jason
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I was told to just use a liquid weld and weld it shut for good.
It is the one on the back of the engine and I would like to find a way around the removing of the transmission.
AnswerAs much as I hate to say it, the only way to replace it is to remove the transmission. There is almost no space between the engine and firewall on those. Liquid weld or any type of epoxy might seal the leak for a short time, but I would be afraid to drive very far for fear it would come loose and leave me stranded.
For the record, I have never seen a freeze plug fail on one of those. However, intake gaskets fail quite often on the 4.0 engine and will cause coolant to leak down the back sides of the engine. I would get a second opinion before getting my hands dirty.
Jason
