Freeze Plug Suggestions: 1999 Grand Prix

[Oklahoma Traveler]

...I still haven't decided if I'm going to eventually sell this car or not, but I figured that since you guys were such a great help before, I'd give things a go myself.

Actually, as an aside before I get to the point here, I decided to buy another Grand Prix as well. They're great cars, so I figured I needed another one in my driveway!

Back to the 1999: after really examining the car, the only real problem I found was with a broken freeze plug. There was a vacuum line and a couple electric wires that needed replaced, but that wasn't a problem.

The freeze plug is located on the back center of the engine, with barely enough room to stick a pinky finger in. Since this is something that's pretty inexpensive to buy, and once I can get to it looks like it'll be easy to fix, I've taken on the challenge of doing it myself.

So, the question is, is there any advice anyone has on replacing this little bugger?

I don't know if these pictures will help any, but I've included them anyway. You can see there's a perfect little hole where the plug is meant to be, but alas, only water runs freely there now. From what I understand, the plugs are pretty much standard for these cars. I'll have to check on that before I purchase a new one.

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[Scottydoggs]

sadly im thinking the only way to replace that freeze out plug is to A, drop the trans, or B, pull the engine, unless there is some tool built to get in there, but it is a bad angle to even re pound a new plug into. i vote for trans drop, less crap to deal with.

and if you have to do one plug you mind as well do the rest of them on that side at least.

 

[blueguy]

The front ones can be done with ease with the starter/manifold/knock sensor out of the way IIRC...but I've seen the rear ones done in the car...but it took quite awhile. If you don't have quite a bit of experience with these motors it'd probably be easier to yank the motor or drop the transmission...either way...it isn't fun at all.

 

[Oklahoma Traveler]

sadly im thinking the only way to replace that freeze out plug is to A, drop the trans, or B, pull the engine, unless there is some tool built to get in there, but it is a bad angle to even re pound a new plug into. i vote for trans drop, less crap to deal with.

and if you have to do one plug you mind as well do the rest of them on that side at least.

I've never heard of such a tool, but that doesn't mean that it doesn't exist. If it did exist, I doubt I'd have the extra cash to but it..

I figure no matter which way I go, I'll have to do a lot of removing and replacing parts - but still, it's cheaper than hiring a mechanic to do it.

The strange thing about all of this is the fact that all of the other plugs towards the rear look almost brand new. Either way, I figure I'll replace all of them just to be safe.

Thanks for the help!

The front ones can be done with ease with the starter/manifold/knock sensor out of the way IIRC...but I've seen the rear ones done in the car...but it took quite awhile. If you don't have quite a bit of experience with these motors it'd probably be easier to yank the motor or drop the transmission...either way...it isn't fun at all.

Unfortunately, my experience with this kind of thing is somewhat lacking. I've done a lot of work on engines, but haven't ever had to replace a freeze plug yet. Fortunately, my father-in-law has, and he seems to think that it can be done without having to take out the engine or anything. I've been trying to do all the research I can just to double check things, but for a lot of it I'm going to have to rely on his experience. The guy was raised on having to rebuild everything, so I have confidence in him.

Since it's a spare car though, I have all the time in the world...and it may take that much time to get 'er done.

Thanks for the help!

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Also, we were looking for a good schematic of the underside of the engine for reference. Does anyone know of where I could find something like this?

Thanks for the help! I wouldn't know what to do without you guys..

 

[copgtp]

I don't see how you're going to be able to press that rear freeze plug in with the transmission sitting right there............ but good luck!!!

 

[Oklahoma Traveler]

I don't see how you're going to be able to press that rear freeze plug in with the transmission sitting right there............ but good luck!!!

I agree, but he seems to think it can be done. If we're able to do it that way then Ill have to come back and explain his method of madness.

I know that no matter what, it's going to be a hell of a job. Right now I have to finish some work on a Ford Focus, but once that's done.. well.. I'll need all the luck I can get!