Thread: Expansion Plugs / Freeze Plugs??

I am looking to replace these in my b13 sr20 since they been leaking oil. Should I replace these or just throw some rtv around?? I am talking about the plugs on the left bottom side of the picture, last picture (SR20 engine head). Wondering why they are called freeze plugs.....

In case I replace them...should I add some rtv on them? Would I also need to buy those "plug tapers" the ones next to the plugs??

How hard will this job be?

Part #009331301A

http://www.courtesyparts.com/009331301a-plug-sentra-b13-1991-1994-p-78507.html

111 Cylinder Head & Rocker Cover :: Engine Mechanical :: Genuine Nissan Parts :: Sentra / NX Parts (B13) 1991-1994 :: Nissan Parts, NISMO and Nissan Accessories - Courtesyparts.com

You've confused me. Have any real pics? Freeze plugs are a misnomer. They got the name because people think they are to prevent damage to the block in the case that the coolant freezes. They don't actually do that though, and I forget their real name.

Anyway, there's almost no way these would be leaking oil, so you've got some 'splainin' to do.

Oil has been leaking thru them thats for sure...

Look on the second link, picture is pretty clear.

There are four in this picture. Which ones are leaking oil?
And are you 100% sure it's not leaking from the valve cover and dripping down onto them making it look like they are leaking?

You could get away with removing them and putting them back with some RTV to seal them provided all that is behind them in the timing chain galley. Or just replacing them with new ones and using a tiny bit of RTV. Just make sure everything is very clean/dry. I see now that they could be leaking oil. Just wasn't sure about which plugs you were talking about before.

Its already dark here in Cali...I will take a picture tomorrow. Thanks for your help. Really appreciated.

If I wasn't clear before, you can replace them with new and use RTV to be extra sure they will seal, or remove them and clean them up and reuse them if they look okay and use some RTV to make sure they seal. I wouldn't just slather some RTV on the outside though.

It might help a whole lot to remove the valve cover for this job. It would also help a lot to remove the cam sprockets, but I'm pretty sure you don't want to get into all that.

Welch plugs. They are there to drain the sand from the casting when cooled. Misnamed freeze plugs by crazy hillbillies lol.

They are pretty easy to change out, but leaking oil is kinda confusing. Because the coolant passages can cause the plugs to leak because of rust, but oil plugs shouldn't have that issue. Post pics when you can.

Sooo I re did my valve cover gasket and added some "right stuff" silicone to the half moons. You were right. Thanks to all of you for such quick help!!