Greg,
Apparently a good way to get them out is to hit the core plug to one side of centre with a punch so that it spins on it's axis in the hole. Then you can get something like mole grips on one edge and pull the core plug out.
When putting the new plugs in you need to get something like a small hard mallet or perhaps a piece of dowel or round steel bar than almost fills the back of the cup and tap it in with another mallet or hammer. If you use something too small it will push in the centre of the plug and distort it. Try to keep it square to the block and don't tap it in too far, so the edge is just below the outer surface of the block.
I have seen a metal retaining strap used which goes across the core plug and is screwed into the block on either side of the plug to stop it coming out. I can't remember where I saw this but it was probably on a high performance Chrysler V8.
Have you thought about why you lost one in the first place?
What's the pressure rating on your radiator cap?
Kevin H
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