Leaking freeze plugs in 98 4.0

School me on what everyone does when replacing the 5 freeze plugs on the side of the block.

I have replaced them twice on my wifes jeep and they keep seeping coolant. They are brass 2" plugs. First time I treated the edges with the copper gasket stuff and the second time with permatex.

Im getting really tired of them leaking.

The cooling system got a new radiator, water pump and thermostat last freeze plug change. And now ive noticed ive got a slow leaking water pump.

None are leaking bad enough to leave a good sized puddle on the ground just coating stuff under in green...

Could these leaks be a result of to much pressure in the cooling system? or what.... I also put a lower pressure radiator cap to see if that helped but no luck.


Im planning on replacing the freeze plugs once again now that the weather is starting to warm up.

Should add that we replaced the freeze plugs on the '96 DD, using the (same) Permatex Shellac with NO problems...

Did find this statement that concerns me....

"I have used sockets in a pinch and they work.One problem is that the socket can deform the plug and shrink the diameter if the center is caved a little from beating on it."

markhuntsville said:

Did find this statement that concerns me....

"I have used sockets in a pinch and they work.One problem is that the socket can deform the plug and shrink the diameter if the center is caved a little from beating on it."

Click to expand...

ive also heard this, but havent had the issue myself. the key to using the wrong tool for the job (like this) is to make sure the diameter matches the plug as close as possible so you arent pushing in the center of the plug.
if you have a persistent leak i'd look at the sealing surface for a crack, chip, or rust pitting that weakens the seal.

sidriptide said:

ive also heard this, but havent had the issue myself. the key to using the wrong tool for the job (like this) is to make sure the diameter matches the plug as close as possible so you arent pushing in the center of the plug.
if you have a persistent leak i'd look at the sealing surface for a crack, chip, or rust pitting that weakens the seal.

Click to expand...

Havent thought about that. I know on my 96 (that doesnt leak) i used a socket the perfect diameter. I dont think i used that same socket on the 98 that leaks.... could be the problem...

256offroad said:

i used a socket the perfect diameter. I dont think i used that same socket on the 98 that leaks.... could be the problem...

Click to expand...

You want to use a socket that fits snugly inside of the plug. Not one that just sits some place in the center of the plug.

Talyn said:

You want to use a socket that fits snugly inside of the plug. Not one that just sits some place in the center of the plug.

Click to expand...

thats what im beginning to think. or at least thats what ill go with....