993 Core plug

Having got my 1995 993 Hijet back from the MOT, and then waited till today for the snow to melt, I thought I'd better check the levels. Water is now pi**ing out from somewhere just below the distributor I think I can feel a core plug, but it seems intact. Will get some light on it tomorrow - it's not easy to see. Has anyone replaced this plug before?

no, but if a plug has blown, you also need to check your coolant, do you have anti-freeze in it? the right amount?

I think that question should be DID I have enough antifreeze in, but you're quite right! There was before I took it for the MOT but I've had a small leak from the back of the engine (probably from the same place, actually) for some time and regularly top-up. With the garage running it for the emissions test and moving it around whilst waiting for the parts, I guess the water and/or protection levels had dropped. Hence, when it sat in the snow, something gave. Am going to have a look at it this afternoon, but it's a tricky place to get to!

while doing the gasket job the other month, my mate was telling me about these plugs.. and that they are designed to pop when the block freezes. its a safety thing.

best thing is to phone daihatsu and ask how much a plug is.. as to fitting.. no idea i expect some kind of press will be used to wedge it in!

and... Put antifreeze in it NOW before another plug blows.

Have just de-frosted fingers after investigating. Core-plug is still present, but has a small hole rusted through. They are steel, and it's probably due to many summers running without inhibitor in the coolant. Am considering plugging the hole with metal epoxy as a temporary measure as it's going to be a swine to get to. BTW, usual method of installing a core plug is using a socket as a drift to hammer it in.

ahhh yes, good ol sockets as drifts.. good for wheel bearings too.. on a bike!

And don't forget to give it a good tap with the ball pain end so you put a little dent in it so it can have a little expansion before it pops, My mate did fix a core plug a few years ago with chemical metal and it held to the summer but it needs to be dry and clean if the hole is small enough you could put a self tapping screw in with a but of chemical metal to seal.

Thanks, Rich - I might try the temporary route for quickness (and interest!). Should be warmer here Friday, so might do it then.

This job got shelved due to the temperature and Christmas. Got some new core-plugs on Saturday, failed to get the old one out and gave up after 1.5 hours. Sunday, old plug came out in 2 minutes, new one fitted, filled system and ran up to temperature - all ok. Very relieved. 5 minutes down the road and overheating like a good 'un! Grrrr. There are 2 metal water pipes right above the crossmember, one goes to the rad and one to the heater (via hoses), and the heater one on mine has split. Luckily I have a 'spares' van, but it looks a pain to get at... Oh well, who wants a new vehicle anyway???