Minor Block Cracks

[imported_Gary L]

I have a 1980 Century Arabian with a 350 Chevy OMC 800 low profile mechanical shift outdrive. The motor block has a minor crack in the block on the port side under the manifold in the flat area. I just bought the boat and have never had in in the water as I'm rebuilding the outdrive. For some reason I'm not too concerned about taking the Dremel to the cracks and JB welding them. There is no separation of the metal just a thin line of rust indicating some leakage. Should I be more concerned assuming that when I put the boat in the water I get no water in the oil?

 

[DukesFin]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

Is the crack similar to this one? This picture was taken as I was removing my engine due to the crack in the picture... Emulsified oil boiled out of it, the breather, into the carb, etc, etc, etc...

Granted, it is a different engine, but on a boat, I was not going to consider "fixing" a crack. I know it's done, but not on my boat!

 

[Larson5.0]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

We had a 350 mercruiser that went years with a crack exactly like the one you describe. JB weld worked fine.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Minor Block Cracks


Well if it's only an external leak,no water in the oil.and it's minor,it might seal itself with rust.

DHP

 

[imported_Gary L]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

I have a 1980 Century Arabian with a 350 Chevy OMC 800 low profile mechanical shift outdrive. The motor block has a minor crack in the block on the port side under the manifold in the flat area. I just bought the boat and have never had in in the water as I'm rebuilding the outdrive. For some reason I'm not too concerned about taking the Dremel to the cracks and JB welding them. There is no separation of the metal just a thin line of rust indicating some leakage. Should I be more concerned assuming that when I put the boat in the water I get no water in the oil?

 

[imported_Gary L]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

Thanks for the info gentlemen. My crack is just a thin line of light rust with no real sign of leakage so I'll certainly hope the JB Weld does the job. I also hope I get a ride in my new old boat before the lake freezes over. The forum has been a great help in my project. Thanks a lot. Gary L

 

[jmlloar]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

Metalex works better than jb weld in these applications.

Its also easier to work with, as it needs no mixing and you can add the special thinner to make it as thin or thick as you want it.

 

[calwldlif]

Re: Minor Block Cracks

Minor cracks and Block
are words that don't go well together.
I hope they stay MINOR.