Where is FROST PLUG on 3 litre engine ?

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Eunoia Eigensinn - 08 Dec 2005 23:32 GMT

The weather people are saying that this winter is going be colder than
usual so I thought I'd install a block heater.

I was going to put in the type that fits into the rad hose but the
"universal" one that I bought apparently won't work because of the hose
arrangement in the Camry (I just called the heater manufacturer) so it
looks like I have to go with the cheaper type that replaces the frost
plug.

It's pretty cold out there right now (and dark) and I didn't feel like
crawling around under the car to have a look so I'm asking here
instead. (Also, how easy is it to get at to remove ?) If it's such
that I require long arms and tiny hands, then I may just pawn off the
job on my neighbourhood mechanic.

Thanks in advance .

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m Ransley - 09 Dec 2005 00:39 GMT

You might be alot safer cutting in the hose, I would personaly not mess
with a freeze plug., get someone that knows, Look for a round recessed
disk apx 1" in diameter. Most everything is visible on the 4

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davidj92 - 09 Dec 2005 22:34 GMT

> The weather people are saying that this winter is going be colder than
> usual so I thought I'd install a block heater.
[quoted text clipped - 12 lines]
>
> Thanks in advance .

I don't mean this to be smart, but if you don't know what a freeze-plug is
you probably shouldn't try to install yourself, especially if you need it in
a hurry. They need to be installed in a precise manner so the block isn't
damaged in the process and leak from it. The freeze-plug type is a good
option, many types of construction equipment (backhoes, loaders and etc.)
with diesel engines have this style and they work well. I've worked
(replaced and installed) on a lot of these.
I've personally used the tank style and they are a good choice. I opted for
hooking to the heater hose and lower rad hose when I installed them. It used
to be the dip-stick style was dangerous and started fires in some instances,
so some states outlawed them. They are probably better constructed now but,
would be my last choice.
HTH, davidj92

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joanne_mh - 30 Dec 2005 05:36 GMT

"" wrote:

> The weather people are saying that this winter is going be
> colder than
[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>
> Thanks in advance .

My suggestion is you get a trained mechanic to do the job.
Once the frost plug is removed you will loose most of your
coolant, hence a messy job. The engine block heater is
easily damage on installation if not careful, and will cause
MAJOR coolant leak if it blows out....which needless to say
could cause engine damage if it over heats.

Joanne MH

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