Changing the rear freeze plugs

[Teuffelhunden]

I have a 1984 Sea Ray with a 260 Mercruiser. When I run my engine, I have water gushing out around my starter. It's warm so I believe it may be a freeze plug behind the flywheel. Can I get to it without pulling the engine?

 

[Maritime Matt]

I just did a repair on a 94 5.0 litre GM. It was the pipe plug in the Starboard head behind the exhaust manifold. The plug was rotted through. Had to remove manifold and riser. Also replaced starter as well as it is much easier to get to it. Salt was gushing down on to it so it was only a matter of time. Matt.

 

[Teuffelhunden]

Thank everyone for the replies. I pulled the engine last weekend and replaced ALL (6) of the freeze plugs. I wanted brass but all I could get down here (in the Keys) was the original pot metal. I figure the last set lasted 24 years! They were so bad I could tap on them with a screwdriver and punch right through! I used my davit to lift the engine and lifted it straight up so I wouldn't have to disconnect the hydraulics for the steering. I also replaced the starter, altenator, rebuilt the main water pump on the engine, replaced and re-routed some wiring, inspected and lubed the upper unit and ancillary parts, then rebuilt the lower unit. In all it took a day to replcae the freeze plugs and set the engine back in and another 3 days to button it all up. Nothing to it...I've been hot rodding Chevys since I was a kid, but for those whom are unsure about pulling your engine...Feel free to contact me and I will be more than happy to walk you through it...It's really not difficult. I did for less than $450 what the mechanic offered to do for $2500!