Hi Everyone.Have just replaced four welch plugs on el falcon 6cyl on the exhaust manifold side of the block.The 5th being closest to the front of the block is being the toughest due to the steel heater pipe making the room and angle difficult.Does anyone know if the heater pipe needs to be removed in order for a successful plug belt-in? Any advice much appreciated.

I use a socket on an extension with a copper hammer to knock them in.

Thanks for the great advice cjh.The copper hammer did the trick in a matter of minutes for the plug at the front of the block.Also found for anyone else doing this job,if you release the two retaining nuts for the heater pipe(one on the side of the exhaust manifold and one on the rear of the block)seems to be enough to jiggle it to allow the plug to go in straight.

How long does it take to replace the welch plugs on your vehicle?