TOPIC: Replacing Engine Freeze Plugs

I have a Ford 351, 240A marine setup, on a Volvo 280 stern drive.

When winterizing the motor last fall, I Failed to notice a drain petcock on one side of the motor hence only drained one side.
While getting the boat ready for use I discovered my error (Two(2) freeze plugs popped out).
Question: Can I jack up /hoist the motor from the engine mounts enough to replace plugs without disconnecting the heat exchangers, and all the auxiliary stern drive hoses and fittings?[/b][/b]

Please advice.

Hello Devel,

I'm not familiar with Volvo exhaust manifols. I have a Ford 302 Mercruiser (same engine family) and the exhaust manifolds would allow freeze plug replacement wihout disassembly. You may have to remove your motor mounts though.



If the freeze plugs were pushed though, I would be concerned your cylinder block may be cracked. I suggest you take the difficult steps of removing it from your boat and give it a thorough inspection. That is a good engine, so I hope it's not broken.

Thanks for your response

Can engine be raised to clear mounts without damaging the stern drive components or causing stern drive to go out of alignment?

If the Volvo drive is similar to the Mercuiser drive, you will definately have to remove the drive, which contains the drive shaft, before you start shifting the engine around. Additionally, I think you should be prepared to realign the engine and drive because there is a fair amount of play in the motor and drive mounts.