1979 300sd Turbo diesel freeze plug replacement

[Andrewkarap]

Hey all, new poster here. Hoping you guys can help me. My dad and I are restoring a 79 300sd and we need to replace the freeze plugs on the engine. Any tips on how to do this without having to take out/dismantle too many parts? Thanks.

[Squiggle Dog]

Welcome! I haven't replaced core plugs on an OM617, though I did remove the threaded plug by the starter so I could install a block heater (the manifolds were off at the time, and I'm not sure if it or the core plugs could be done with them in place--see picture below; not very accessible otherwise).


And with the manifolds in place, I just don't see how it's possible, but if you can get the car up on a lift to where you can stand under it, MAYBE you can get them out...


I did some on a 1960 Ford F-100 with a V-8. It was awkward but doable.