3.4L V6 Camaro freeze plugs

[jimh]

I think (hope?) my anti-freeze leak is from a freeze plug, as opposed to a cracked block. I think there are a couple of plugs on the sides, under numbers 3 and 4. I also heard there are a couple at the back of the block? This is where the leak is at, although I can't see it exactly, seems to come down and drip off the trans. It seems the only way to tell where the leak is coming from is to take the trans out? This means taking the drive shaft out and working my way towards the block? Ouch. Any advice would be helpful.
Jim

[MrPbody]

You need to remove the trans to get to the ones in the back, true enough. They ARE known to leak. Use brass when you replace them. If you're not familiar with the R&R process on the trans, get a book or a pro...

Jim

[jimh]

Thanks for the reply. I was pretty sure that's what you were going to say. This is a friends car who can't afford a "pro". I bought a book and it didn't look too bad, just a pain. I already marked and removed the drive shaft. Will continue tonight on the trans. I guess I was just hoping there was some slick trick to fix the leak. Guess not!
Thanks again

[jimh]

By the way, assuming it is a freeze plug, and once I get to it, I see that there are rubber expansion type replacements available. Are these better or worse than the brass plugs? Also, if I use the brass type, is there a sealant that I should use? The "Chilton" manual doesn't even mention anything about freeze plugs.
Thanks in advance.
Jim