I’ve heard of guys using a socket to get the disc freeze plugs in. And once they are in, tap the center of the freeze plug with a rounded punch & hammer to help embed the edges of the plug into the block. I would imagine some sort of sealant would be a good idea to use before installing them too.
Of course, the correct tool would be the best, but who the hell has those just lying around in a shop
My dad and I had a similar discussion. We were talking about the freeze plugs in the IDI, and I explained what type they were.
Now, understand, my Dad has been working on engines for over 50 years, and just recently bought new enough vehicles to have a warranty... (he turns 70 later this year). He is not a mechanic (No piece of paper, and the job he retired from was not a mechanics job,) but has worked in as a mechanic in his younger years, and has done all his own work, until recently. I told him about the almost impossible to find special tool. His statement, "Oh those, you just tap them in the hole and hit it with a ball-peen hammer. Done that for years, never had a problem in any engine I did that way"......
Disclaimer: I know that IH has a tool to do this job, this is just the opinion of one "old man"....... But if I had one fail, and it was in the truck and that was the only issue...... I own a ball-peen hammer......
