How big is a freeze plug on an engine block?
If you look on the side of an engine block you will see a line of circular depressions about an inch and a half in diameter and about a quarter of an inch deep. These are actually holes in the side of the engine block which are plugged with a dish shaped metal plug called a “freeze plug” or “expansion plug”.
What happens when water freezes in engine block?
If water freezes inside your engine block, it can expand and crack the block, destroying the motor. Freeze plugs (or expansion plugs) will “pop out” and supposedly prevent this. In reality this doesn’t work all the time: I’ve seen MANY blocks destroyed by cracking without the freeze plugs popping out, or if they do pop out the block cracks anyway.
Where does the freeze plug on a car come from?
The term “freeze plug” did, however come about because if the coolant does freeze, the expansion will at times push out the core hole plugs. But the block is often cracked inside the water jacket, and can be an external (to the outside of the block) or internal, such as a cylinder wall.
What makes the hole in a freeze plug?
When the engine block is formed, sand is used to form the basic shape and passageways. The engine block is then combined with iron and aluminum. After cooling, the sand loosens and is removed through holes. These are the same holes that need plugging with the freeze plug.
Why do I need a freeze plug in my engine?
Expansion plugs, or freeze plugs, are built into your vehicle’s engine block to prevent damage due to freezing. If the coolant to water ratio in your engine is not high enough, it is possible that fluid can freeze inside the block’s water jackets in cold weather. When water freezes, it expands, which can crack or otherwise damage your block.
How many freeze plugs are in a set?
Sold as a set of 7. (1) Select your preferred location and we’ll note which parts are ready to be picked up TODAY. Freeze Plugs, Brass, Threaded, Chevy, Small Block LS, Kit Freeze Plug Kit, Brass, Ford, Small Block, 221, 255, 260, 289, 302, 351W, Kit Freeze Plugs, Brass, Chevy, Big Block, 396-454, Kit
How did the freeze plugs get their name?
However, many people would forget to replace the plain water, resulting in frozen water inside the engine. The pressure of the frozen water would cause the plugs to pop, resulting in the name “freeze plugs.” When the engine block is formed, sand is used to form the basic shape and passageways.
When the engine block is formed, sand is used to form the basic shape and passageways. The engine block is then combined with iron and aluminum. After cooling, the sand loosens and is removed through holes. These are the same holes that need plugging with the freeze plug.