Ok, I have coolant leaking from the bell housing. I am expecting it to be one of the freeze plugs. My question, would it be easier to drop the transmission or to pull the engine in order to replace the ones on the back of the engine?

 

Generally, I like to pull the engine. Especially if you can remove the radiator support. This goes double if you have a 4X4. While you have it out, it would be a good time to flush the block. You'd be surprised how much rust and sand will come out. Be sure to replace ALL the expansion plugs since if one is rotten, others aren't far behind. While it's out, if you have over 100K on the engine, put a new timing set in it along with a high volume oil pump. Do NOT put a high pressure pump in. It will wash the bearings out. High volume will compensate for worn bushings. Get an engine stand and clean the engine up and maybe replace the valve cover gaskets and anything else it might need that is a bear to get to in the truck.

 

thanks for the advice.