I'm removing my core plugs prior to cleaning the engine thoroughly.

There's the two big ones on the side. The two small ones on either end of the oil galley, the one big one on the end of the cam shaft, the big one on the front center, and what appears to be a bing one on the back center.

On my engine, this one on the back center looks different. It's domed outwards instead of dished inwards. Is this a core plug? I don't want to start hammering on it and end up breaking my block. Is it installed backwards? Should I install the new one this way?

When buying new plugs, are brass ones better than the steel ones? Permatex #2 the best thing for sealing the new plugs?

Thanks!