I sprung a leak!!!!. -22* and I went to start it. let it warm up for 10 minutes and when i came back outside the 2nd from the front freeze plug, popped a pin hole (yeah the one behind the motor mount) any way to replace the freeze plugs with out pulling the motor? I know if one is that close to popping they are all probably jacked. really don't wanna pull the engine on my XJ as i don't have a hoist available here and no heated garage. any thoughts?

 

Search rubber freeze plugs .

 

search didn't answer my question... thats why i posted. can one repalce the freeze plugs without pulling the motor. answer .... no

 

knock it sideways in the hole then take pliers and pull it out and replace with rubber freeze plug all freeze plugs can be replaced with motor in xj if you find the right mechanic .

 

Pull the intake and exhaust manifolds off and the freeze plugs are right there.

 

I just went through a lot of drama with my freeze plugs. Don't get the rubber ones!! Go with the brass replacements--they are more permeable and have a much tighter fit than standard steel. I went with the steel ones at first too and quickly learned I should have went with brass--ask me how I know! (One popped out while driving and drained all my coolant quickly and the engine overheated)

They are pretty easy to do once you get to them. You will have to remove the throttle intake cable bracket, disconnect the fuel line and remove the support bracket from the intake, loosen and remove the idler pulley bracket and the steering pump assembly you can sit off to the side. It will really help to remove the electric fan as well (my 98 has this setup) then you can remove the intake and exhaust. 9/16" socket and make sure you have extenders and u-joints!

The second time around I decided to pull the first motor mount to give me room to hammer in the new plugs. I highly recommend doing this but make sure you have a block of wood and a good floor jack to place under the oil pan and jack the motor up some before removing the mount. Good luck, let us know how you make out!

Here is my thread when I was doing mine.

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/fre...stions-158520/

 

The rear plugs require pulling stuff. Back of the head and back of the block, hidden by the flexplate/flywheel. Pull the head for one, the transmission for the other.