Well this weekend we replaced the leaking core plug. I did purchase the core plugs from Amazon but by mistake I ordered a box containing 5 plugs for 12.95, didn’t use them since my local Auto Zone had excess inventory and purchased the metal ones. Considering that the front clip is off the truck we opted to install the metal core plug.

While removing the original core plug it got hairy and used a coat hanger to hook the plug, catch the plug’s edge with a vise grip pliers and pulled it out.

Though I had drained the radiator coolant came pouring out. For your information our rear engine block drain is not to be messed with, since decades ago someone had probably messed up the blocks thread, installed an oversized fitting and capped the pipe.

I used a basting suction tool to extract coolant and whatever rust residue that was inside the block near the core plug hole.
Sorry for the drawn out detail.

Last edited by Phak1; 11/18/2024 1:54 PM. Reason: Typos