Saw some pics of guys using petcocks for engine block drain plugs. Looks like a good idea. Anybody know a good place to get them, and even better a part number. Saw one that you could put a hose over to drain. By the way how hard are they to get to when the engine is still in the car with headers. I have a small block. Thanks.

You can buy the petcocks at most any auto parts store. Tell the counter guy you want the 1/4" pipe thread ones. Petcocks used to be a common thing on both blocks and radiators before everybody got cheap and put in pipe plugs. As far as to how easy they are to install - there are several styles of drains and depending on your headers and how much clearance you have can make a difference in how easy it will be.

I used standard radiator style petcocks, they are great. No more fighting with rusted on plugs when I need to drain the block. A lot more controllable too, less messy

Jon,
If you want some really nice ones that will last forever, get them at a Mercruiser Marine dealer.

Right, the suckers cheaped out on us b/c both sides of the block and the rad. used to have brass ones installed stock!

pdq67