How do I check for a cracked block with the heads off?

[menglor]

Good morning gentleman and ladies.

So to make a long story, even longer :joyous:

I have a Ford 351W and was having problems turning the crankshaft, so I ended up taking off the heads to see if there was an obstruction, or damaged head. The Engine had been sitting for a while, so I figured it wouldnt be a bad thing to change the gaskets anyway.

So I went off and ordered the gasket kit for the engine, and figured I should order a oil filter, so I took it off. and found a shot glass amount of water in the filter.

I havent pulled the drain plug off the engine yet, thats the plan for tonight, because it wasnt till this morning that the whole thing clicked in my head that the block might be cracked.

So I figured I would write up this post before heading into work, and maybe someone who is smarter then me can give me some idea's

- Right now, I have the engine block sitting on a frame designed to test fire on the floor of my Garage, made with 2x6's
access to the oil plug is a PITA right now. but I will figure something out.

- since pressure testing my block is not possible right now, you know with everything removed. what is the best way to check for leaks?

I read a post someplace that recommended putting acetone/paint thinner/either? and filling all the levels up so that if there is a crack, its going to seep out since its 4 times thinner then water.

I have included a link to my gallery of photo's I was making this weekend.


Basically, I am asking for help on how to figure out if I have a cracked block or not.



http://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/113265924173107068758/albums/5884982139440571745

 

[aerobat]

Re: How do I check for a cracked block with the heads off?

all you can do now is to look carefully for any cracks. lifter valley or the area below the exhaust ports seems to be the common places.

do you have indication to believe your block is freeze cracked ?

 

[menglor]

Re: How do I check for a cracked block with the heads off?

all you can do now is to look carefully for any cracks. lifter valley or the area below the exhaust ports seems to be the common places.

do you have indication to believe your block is freeze cracked ?

- Other then the water in the oil filter,
- Murphy and I have been on first name basis with this build.
- nothing around the intakes, exhaust or black indicates a problem, but I been sucks a lot of rust particles from the channels.

I am thinking I am going pull the pan off and slide it out tonight,

Also, I noticed a fair amount of rust.

http://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/1...5884985681863491906&oid=113265924173107068758


I guess its possible it was leaking, but I am trying to cover my bases now before I slap it all back together.

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: How do I check for a cracked block with the heads off?

You've got quite a few photos, which will help when it comes to reassembling the engine. The big question is: In what condition was the engine stored? Was it winterized or was it allowed to freeze with water inside? If it was winterized, then the gamble of completing the assembly is probably worth the cost and labor. The engine block and heads can be magnafluxed to check for cracks. Contact any local auto engine rebuilder. They can probably connect you with smeone who can magnaflux it. It would be worth the cost if you want to keep the engine. However, if it was allowed to freeze with water inside, you're probably looking at a crack somewhere. In that case, get a replacement engine. I'm not that familiar with marinized Ford engines, so I can't direct you to which car or truck engine block, if any, can be used. Good luck, and post the results, please. Hy

 

[menglor]

Re: How do I check for a cracked block with the heads off?

well as luck would have it, Murphy was out gunning for me today.

so, I got home and before I could get to working on the boat my wife informed me that the water heater was leaking, so 2 hours of fixing that, I actually got to eat supper then go play with my engine.

I tell you, its a blessing and curse to have a best friend who is a mechanic who owns his own Garage.

Man o Man, did I get abused tonight!!

So to talk about all the fun I had, I decided to check the oil in the engine.

but as I said, Murphy was at play, so for me to check the oil , I had to get the water out first

I dont know exactly how much water I pulled out, but I can say this. there was 3 x 9litres of liquid I pulled out of the engine black.

So, basically tomorrow, I get to take the engine to his Garage and we are going to put it on a Engine Dolly, and then pull it apart and rebuild/look for cracks.


so, I was told by the previous owner that the engine was winterized, but Last summer it rained tons and the inside of the boat got wet a lot. The engine has been in my garage all winter, and heated.

So the risk of ice damage is possible, but we wont know till later.

oh joy oh bliss!

Anyone have a rubber jacket? I am sure tired of Murphy sticking around and haunting me.


Look for more updates,


As the stomach turns!!...