Which statement is true concerning core plugs during inspection?

Core plugs, also known as freeze plugs, play a vital role in an engine, providing protection against freezing and allowing for the expansion of engine coolant. When inspecting core plugs, best practice dictates that they should be replaced if they are accessible. This is primarily because core plugs can develop corrosion, wear, or other forms of deterioration over time. Even if they appear to be in good condition, it is often safer and more reliable to replace them, especially if the engine is being serviced for other reasons.

This proactive approach minimizes the risk of leakage or failure in the future, which could lead to significant engine damage or overheating problems. Replacing core plugs ensures that any potential issues are addressed before they can escalate into larger problems. Furthermore, if core plugs are replaced while other engine work is being done, it can save time and effort later, as accessing them usually requires disassembly of parts of the engine.

In contrast, while some may consider reusing core plugs if they seem undamaged, this practice is not ideal, as unseen degradation may exist, and there is no guarantee they will not leak after reinstallation. Cleaning core plugs is not the primary focus during inspection; rather, the emphasis should be on ensuring that their integrity is intact, which often points