Depends on where the freeze plugs are located. I was able to replace my freeze plugs by rubber expanding plugs without removing the engine but if they are too close to the engine mounts or if the compartment walls are too close to the engine, they won't be able to get to them without removing the engine.

Valve covers/gaskets can be replaced without removing the engine.

Have them show you the freeze plug locations. If they aren't leaking, why do they want to replace them? Mine didn't start leaking until the vehicle was 30 years old (rusted out).

Answered by junkymagi
1 question asked

If the freeze plugs are leaking is there anything that can be used to stop the leak without going thru the expensive repairs? I mean something similar to stop leak except heavy duty stuff at least to prolong usage?

Response from Ms_Priss66
1 question asked

Freeze plugs are actually very thin wall steel cup shaped pieces pressed into holes in the bottom/sides of the engine.

Once they start leaking, that means they are rotting out and will only get worse.

They can be replaced by regular persons and replaced with a rubber plug. It's smaller than the hole, has steel plate on both sides with a bolt through the middle that's tightened to increase it's diameter, sealing up the hole.

Only hard part is getting the old plugs out. I did mine by shoving a screwdriver through the middle and prying them out (they were that rotten).

One plug, I had to use a punch and knock in one side to turn it sideways in the hole then pry it out.

Answered by junkymagi
1 question asked