Block drain plugs

[BJM]

I read that the 86-87 blocks have drain plugs on the sides. Can someone please describe where they are precisely? Are they stopcocks or freeze plugs.

 

[tom h]

I just removed my plugs (87 GN). They are 1/8" NPT threaded, brass plugs. I replaced them with conventional brass radiator draincocks.

My headers & front wheels are off, so it was easy to reach the NPT plugs. With everything in place, it's hard for me to visualize, but it could be a lot harder to access.

Even though the brass plugs have a square head, the soft head rounded off when I tried using a square ratchet socket -- the plugs were in tight. I ended up using a brute force, vise-grips to get them off. On new plugs or draincocks, even if they use "dry-seal" NPT threads , I wouldn't trust it -- I applied thread sealant.

 

[Weazel]

Check this link:
http://www.gnttype.org/techarea/pictureguides/blocks/8687prodturbo.html
The plug is between the two blowout caps. They're symmetrical, one on either side of the engine. From what I remember the drivers side one is a (relative) piece of cake, but the passenger one is a PITA. Be prepared, the coolant first comes out with some speed, and splashes all over everything. It'll hit about a foot away from the plug itself at first. As it drains, it'll eventually fall straight down. Just have a wide pan to catch it (probably a couple quarts per side). You almost certainly will get some on you, so make sure it's cool, and be prepared for cleanup. Good luck!!

 

[tom h]

I used a funnel with a long , narrow tube to capture virtually all the coolant & direct it to a pan (I did inside garage).

then again, my frt wheels & headers are off-- don't know how easy this would be if all the stuff was still in place