? on O-rings in 44 block

[Scott(IN)]

I in the process of overhauling a 277 engine. There are some pits where the o-rings seat in the block for the sleeves. Maybe things will work just fine, but I only what to do this once. Just wondering what others have done. Looks like I could coat the o-rings with RTV gasket maker, but didn't know if that is proper or not.
 

[marloweg]

i have had some over the years that were pitted fairly bad i might have been just lucky but i just cleaned the block [real good]and used a good lube on the O rings and slipped the sleeve in and i never had any leaks might have been lucky but it worked i also put a can of bars leak in the radiator also
 

[rustred]

if it was mine i would use jb weld on the pits , let it dry good then sand it smooth with some emery cloth.
 

[matt p]

I've heard of people using plumbers gas fitting pipe dope. its rated for gasoline,propane,natura gas they use on rubber washers and o'rings.
 

[Mike in Mn.]

On those blocks and all old tractor blocks I clean the bores with a glaze breaker cylinder hone, It will ruin the stones but you will get all four holes done with one set. Usually where the bottom rings set is good, only where the top ones set are pitted from the coolant. I have been installing sleeves with Ultra-Copper as a lube and sealer. Install the rings on the sleeves dry, run a pick under and around them to make sure they do not have a twist, coat the bores with Ultra-copper and coat the sleeve between the o-rings so the top ring will have sealer(the bottom ring going in will wipe the bore). Don't use blue, red, or black, only Ultra-Copper! I have installed sleeves in some pretty nasty looking bores and have never had one leak, have some out there ten years, I use this method on all installs now. This is what works for me, Good Luck on your project! Be sure and dry fit first and index and mark the rod slots.