BigAl1

Finally getting my LS6 block on the stand for strip down and notice a crack in the casting. This is on the back face of the block, the RH side lower rear headbolt casting boss. The tip of the boss is expanded outwards. I can spray fluid into the water jacket near this flaw and no leakage shows up, but spray down into the headbolt hole, and it definately leaks.
Is this block junk?? From initial inspection, I think it can be used, but looking for other opinions. Has anybody seen this happen before? If so, what was the solution?
Allan

2K2WS6TA

iTrader: (2)

FWIW it's an aluminum block, so it can be welded, as to whether the price to weld is more than a new block I can't say
As to whether I'd trust it after its been welded, they weld aluminum aircraft parts all the time, and nobody has a problem with it

SPEEDYws6

iTrader: (9)

That is usually caused by coolant or oil being in the hole when the bolt is torqued down, causing it to hydrolic craking the block. You would probably be fine running the block as is, but it won't cost much to get that welded for a peice of mind.

Ferocity02

iTrader: (60)

I would say that the block should not be used with the crack. Its only going to get worse with the constant heating and cooling of the metal. If its possible to weld it, then I say do that. Needless to say, I would not put too much of any power adder into the block.

blue01ta

iTrader: (4)

Make sure the guy who welds it knows what he's doing. You should drill a small hole at each end of the crack. Not all the way through the block but as deep as the crack. If not then even after it's welded it will just start cracking again from where it left off.

NemeSS

iTrader: (127)

if u decide to not use it
u can always have the liners bored out
and use it as a mock up for other projects
or leave it as is for future reference
thats how i have my original aluma block
that threw a rod