1. Coolant Leakage: Freeze plugs are essential for preventing coolant leaks from the engine block. With the freeze plug removed, coolant will leak from the engine, leading to a loss of coolant and potential overheating of the engine.
2. Entry Point for Dirt and Debris: The absence of the freeze plug creates an opening through which dirt and debris can enter the engine. This can cause damage to internal engine components, such as the piston rings and cylinder walls.
3. Pressure Loss: The freeze plug helps maintain pressure within the engine's cooling system. Removing it will result in a loss of pressure, affecting the proper circulation of coolant and the engine's ability to cool itself effectively.
In summary, running an engine without a freeze plug is not advisable and can lead to various problems, including overheating, coolant leaks, and damage to internal engine components.