Freeze Plugs GM/Mercruiser 260

[Steve the plumber]

The V-8 im working on is installed in the boat and has a Raw Water/open cooling system. The forward two (left and right) freeze plugs poor water out as soon as she's started. Today I pulled the exhaust manifolds and all the plumbing and brackets to get a closer look. On each side the freeze plug is behind the engine mount.

I'm asking for tips and advice. I'm thinking maybe I can put a bottle jack under that side of the motor and remove that entire motor and frame mount and gain "enough" access to the freeze plug(s)to be able to R&R each side one at a time. I've only ever replaced freeze plugs with an engine on the stand. Hoping I can pry the old one out and have enough room to tap a new one in.

Thanks in Advance
Steve

 

[Steve the plumber]

http://imgur.com/zON377p Here's a picture, doesn't really show much. The alternator can be moved. Then I guess I just undo all the bolts, the 3 on the block, two going into the boat and the one big one holding the two together.

 

[alien1952]

The best way is to remove the drive, place a 8 x 8 across the boat and rig a hoist to the front lifting bracket.
A word of caution, the core plugs were pushed out due to improper winterization procedures and the block may be cracked along with the manifolds