[LifeIsGood]

Looking for help on assessing freeze damage. Live in NC where we have broken historical records for low temps and extended days below freezing - not a good year to skip winterizing. Tried to take precautions with heat in the engine compartment but underestimated the cold. I anticipate some ostracizing and deserve it but hope to move beyond that and determine how much damage exists.

I have observed at least one freeze plug is blown but do not know how many there are and where they are. Does anyone have a diagram to help locate the plugs or general advice on how to assess the overall damage? Guessing I'll need to replace the blown plugs (assuming I can get to them) and then start it up to look for leaks.

Appreciate any advice (and well wishes),
LifeIs(still)Good

[GaryDoug]

First let me say I have no experience with this engine. But if you look at this web site for the parts (of what may be too early a 4.3L) you see there are 6 freeze plugs in the front/sides of the block and I believe two more in the back. The two in the back would require engine removal. No idea of their exact locations.
https://www.marineengine.com/parts/m...k-and-camshaft

[LifeIsGood]

Still hoping to get some help on the location of the plugs. A diagram would be most helpful if available.

LifeIsGood

[GaryDoug]

All you needed to do was to internet search for "4.3L Chevy engine freeze plugs" and look at the images; I found this in about a minute:

https://bpi.ebasicpower.com/engines/...ongblockV6.htm

There are two on the front, two on the rear, and two on each side. In these photos, they are "brass" (gold) in color.

Attached is is another photo showing the left/front side

[Scottie1961]

Have you taken evasive action to prevent any further damage? Who knows what has happened thus far but if you could move the boat to an indoor facility or do something to stop any additional problems it might be worth your time. You might get lucky and only have to change out freeze plugs. If you leave it as is then it could get worse.