How do I remove thermactor plugs?

[1986stangfan]

Trying to remove a pair of thermactor plugs out of the gt40 heads I bought. I can’t get hem out for the life of me.

I started by grinding a chisel to fit perfectly in the slots and using a wrench on it. No luck

Then Tried adding heat with a torch. Same outcome

Next I tried using Loctite on one of the power steering bracket bolts and letting it set up, and back it out. Nope

Then I went for the hardened extractor bit and heat again with no luck

I have watched videos of guys installing them with coins. What the heck is holding these in?


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[Ponyryd]

Rust/carbon will be holding them if the heads are used, it makes loctite seem like engine oil. Best way to break them free is with a chisel and hammer, tapping them until they spin enough to use a ratchet or tool on them.
Can I ask why you are removing them? I’d leave them in and bolt the e-crap in place but gut the air pump.

[1986stangfan]

Rust/carbon will be holding them if the heads are used, it makes loctite seem like engine oil. Best way to break them free is with a chisel and hammer, tapping them until they spin enough to use a ratchet or tool on them.
Can I ask why you are removing them? I’d leave them in and bolt the e-crap in place but gut the air pump.


I figure if the smug crap is there it may as well function

[Ponyryd]

That’s your call but it make a very small difference. Also if you’re using a propane torch for that job it will do very little, u need an oxy/acetylene setup to be effective.

[1986stangfan]

Thanks ponyryd. I always appreciate how helpful you are. It’s guys like you that make the forums continue to exist. :D

[ZR]

Does it have them front and back?

[1986stangfan]

Does it have them front and back?

Yes, they are in the front and back of the heads


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[ZR]

that bites.
As said above, heat n tapping is your best friend.

[1986stangfan]

Thanks Rick. I got one out last night after about 3 hours of fighting. Ended up drilling it out and running a 5/8-11 tsp in the hole again. Now have to disassemble the head and give it a real good cleaning :(

[Rino]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVgdSTfqLRk