2. These holes are plugged with special squeeze plugs (spherical plugs), which must be replaced every time the engine water jackets are cleaned, as well as in case of detection of defects caused by corrosion. The accompanying illustration shows the squeeze plugs located on the right side of the 4.2L engine.
Note. If even one squeeze plug is found to be defective, it will be correct to replace all of them.
3. Empty the cooling system.
4. Remove the components/assemblies installed in the engine compartment of the vehicle and restricting access to the squeeze plugs to be replaced.
5. Using a hammer and punch, tap the outer edges of the cork from one of its sides into the hole.
6. Grasp the opposite end of the cork with tongs and pull it out of its hole.
7. Thoroughly clean and dry the opening for the squeeze plug.
8. Lightly lubricate the outer edge of the new plug and the bore wall with Stag joint sealant.
9. Attach the plug to the hole and, using a piece of pipe or an interchangeable socket of a suitable diameter, (equal to the outer diameter of the plug) insert the plug perpendicularly into the hole.
Note. The slightest distortion of the plug in the hole can lead to the development of coolant leaks.
10. Install the components removed for access.
11. Prime the cooling system. With the radiator cap on, start the engine, warm it up to normal operating temperature, and check for coolant leaks.