I don't believe my '87 GT's rocker panel coolant pipes have ever been properly drained while changing coolant fluid, at least I've never done it and now is the time. My situation is how much trouble is it to remove the drain plugs assuming they have never been removed and if they are really stuck what can I do so they can be removed. Thanks again for all the help.
If they are froze in place, don’t strip the hex head nut.
You can drain the pipes by removing the rubber hoses at each end and blowing out what doesn’t drain by gravity with air. Or, drain the pipes as above, heat the plug to free it, then replace the plug with a little antisieze so it’s easier to remove the next time.
Most will just pull the hoses to drain most of the antifreeze out of the pipes and move on with the refill. You could also flush the pipes with hose water while doing it if it makes you feel better. Kinda a messy job however you do it.
[This message has been edited by Kevin87FieroGT (edited 02-08-2019).]
Got a car up on the lift and will do that job on Monday. Owner already stripped out the hex plugs. Need to drain system, drill holes and use a ez out. Hopefully it will work smoothly. Can't see welding anything to those plugs as they are flush to the pipes
------------------ " THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite. "THE COLUSSUS" 87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H " ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "
[This message has been edited by Dennis LaGrua (edited 02-09-2019).]
Heat is always in the plan , PB is regularly used. Just got to be careful with the torch and we'll probably use a fine point tip. We shall see tomorrow.
------------------ " THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite. "THE COLUSSUS" 87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H " ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "
Heat is always in the plan , PB is regularly used. Just got to be careful with the torch and we'll probably use a fine point tip. We shall see tomorrow.
I recommend replacing these internal hex plugs with external hex plugs. These are available from many sources. I use McMaster-Carr. I got SS external hex plugs that take a 7/16" wrench. A better way to go IMO.
------------------ Stanton '88 Formula, red on gray
I recommend replacing these internal hex plugs with external hex plugs. These are available from many sources. I use McMaster-Carr. I got SS external hex plugs that take a 7/16" wrench. A better way to go IMO.
I sounds good on paper but I'd be a little hesitant with them being the lowest point of the car that it would be easy for them to catch on road debris and damage the pipes or ??
Personally I just keep the factory ones in and never had a reason to remove the plugs. I drain the coolant in the front or rear with a hose and depending on positioning in the driveway can keep a lot of the coolant in the car. Draining at the pipes almost guarantees full coolant draining which is not usually desired.
I removed those drain plugs by applying heat, then drilling and using an easy out stud remover. I replaced them with Brass 1/8" NPT hex plugs. Tip: if you do replace them with new plugs use sealant on the threads.
------------------ " THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite. "THE COLUSSUS" 87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H " ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "
