Chuck Cole

Olds64

If the freeze plugs were missing coolant would pour out of the block just as fast as you poured it in. Is it just leaking/dripping? Ask the shop if they know anything about it.

olds 307 and 403

WTF? What are your current temps in Ontario? Did the freeze plugs actually work? A freeze plug kit is like $20, why would someone pull them out?

redoldsman

How would somebody pull the freeze plugs out without destroying them? This is strange. I will stay tuned.

oldcutlass

The proper name for a "freeze plug" is core plug. The intended purpose of the plugs is to fill the holes in the block after the casting sand is removed. An unintended benefit is they may (50/50 chance) push out in case of the coolant freezing to prevent the block from cracking. If they did push out they would have been on the floor under the engine.

bccan

I think they’re in cahoots with South Park’s underpants gnomes

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Tedd Thompson

I’ve seen a bunch of freeze plugs pushed out, but never all six at the same time ? And I think a 50/50 chance of them saving a block is, at best, optimistic. I don't know what happen, but I smell fish...Tedd

MO Olds 2022

To your first question, if you don't have an engine hoist anymore you might be able to use/rent an install kit to get them in or at least started.
Freeze plug installation kit

Chuck Cole

Olds64

Since you don't have a hoist you might be able to unfasten the motor mounts and support the engine with some 4x4s cut down. I'm thinking under the oil pan and you might have enough clearance.

Olds64

Good to hear you got the freeze plugs installed. 4 hours of prep work for a 5 minute job sounds about normal.