cracked block

[btaft]

Hello, I have a massey harris 44 engine with a visable crack between cylinders. What are my options with this problem and what are the costs with any of the solutions. Thanks
 

[Goldsburg]

It has been my experience that many blocks are cracked between either 3 and 4 or 1 and 2 in stock form. "Usually" these cracks do not cause issues.

If you have experience with this block that these cracks are a problem, there is the option to braze them up and re-machine the deck. This process could run in the $400 to $500 range, but finding another "good" block may be in that price range anyway.

Regards,

Goldsburg
 

[grs0820]

Is the crack at the top or the bottom??? at the top the head gasket will seal the issue. at the bottom is another story. I have seen putting sealant in the crack and taking a stainless steel rod through the block and pulling it together. Fact is stranger than George Jones....
 

[Massey44puller]

Metal Locking Service Inc. in Buffalo may be an option if your "in the neighborhood". They cut a french fry shaped hole across the crack (perpendicular) and then peen a high strength piece into the hole to lock it together. There is more to the process and it is not cheap, but it is very strong. I had them do a j382 block about six years ago.