The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 216 engine block

Hello.

If someone is familiar with the 216 engine, could you please tell me some information?

On the front of the engine, on the block itself-in the middle-there is a small circular hole that is covered with a plate. It is about 3 inches in diameter. It is below the fan and water pump, but above and to the right of the timing belt cover.

When I look at the cut away diagram in the manual, it looks like this is empty space used as a channel for the cooling system. Is that correct? What is the purpose of this hole and the plate that covers it?

The reason I ask is because as I ran water through the engine, I noticed that my plate had moved so that a portion of it was pushed in more than the rest, creating a gap where water flowed out of...similar to how a choke on a carb would have one side pushed down and the other side up when open (but not as drastic as that!)

Any thoughts or ideas?

Thanks,

Judson

Judson, A picture would be helpful. I just tore my 235 apart and I can't picture what your asking about...

sure...i will take and link in a few days.

p.s. I was doing a little more research and I think it may be some type of plug...

thanks.

block casting hole plug - some people call it a freeze plug or a freeze-out plug (GM did not call it that)

http://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/fbbuploads/1385662673-rsz_pb190072.jpg

Here is the link to the pic on chevy talk. It looks like it is what you are saying, Tim...an expansion plug or something like that.

I guess I just need to pry it out and get the same size one from the local auto parts store...they said you can get the ones that screw in.

Yes, that is the casting hole plug. But, it is not a standard (freeze plug) and must be set in a special manner. My suggestion is to use one of the common parts vendors to purchase the correct plug. Install convex out, set with ball peen hammer by indenting center of plug disk. Sealant around edges prior to installing is good idea as well.