What is this cylinder head water plug?

[morepower]

Can anyone comment on the installation method for this 200 six cylinder water plug? It is a 1-3/4" dia. x 3/4" thick rubber plug with stud and washer that installs rear of cylinder head. Stamping indicates not to use sealer, but I can't fathom how it would seal, and am considering replacing with a standard freeze plug. Any suggestions much appreciated, thanks.

 

[wallaka]

Can't see your picture because I'm at work, but those types of plugs are aftermarket. A freeze plug was there from the factory, and would be my choice.

 

[Thad]

Aftermarket freeze plug for confined area where a standard plug can't be driven in.
Seals by tighten nut compressing/expanding rubber plug on back. If engine is out where OEM type freeze plug can be installed I'd replace, recommend brass.

 

[LaGrasta]

what's the purpose of this hole? Is it just another freeze plug type of item.

 

[powerband]

Aftermarket freeze plug for confined area where a standard plug can't be driven in.
Seals by tighten nut compressing/expanding rubber plug on back. If engine is out where OEM type freeze plug can be installed I'd replace, recommend brass.

As mentioned, the rubber expanders are usually used if there's a problem while engine is installed in vehicle and regular freeze plug is not a choice.

PB 8)

 

[morepower]

Now I get it... thanks to all!

 

[64falconsix]

use a regular freeze plug, a brass one if you can find one, smear a bit of permatex #2 around the edge before you drive it in.

 

[The Plankster Prankster]

don't use those rubber POS's if you can help it! i just finished working on a mazdog that was killed by one of those. it held water for a couple years, then started leaking. we all know what happens when you're running around without much coolant...

but i guess it would be smart to keep a couple of those in the toolbox for "just in case" situations, they're plenty good to get back to town with

 

[JackFish]

If it's the one on the front put a block heater in there.

 

[rbohm]

don't use those rubber POS's if you can help it! i just finished working on a mazdog that was killed by one of those. it held water for a couple years, then started leaking. we all know what happens when you're running around without much coolant...

but i guess it would be smart to keep a couple of those in the toolbox for "just in case" situations, they're plenty good to get back to town with

8) this is good advice. the rubber plugs are meant for short term use, to get you to some place where you can install a proper core plug. the biggest problem with them is that the rubber loosens up over time so you have to retighten the plugs on a regular basis.