What does an engine block do?
The purpose of the engine block is to support the components of the engine. Additionally, the engine block transfers heat from friction to the atmosphere and engine coolant. The material selected for the engine block is either gray cast iron or aluminum alloy.
Where is my engine block?
Common locations include on the top of the bellhousing flange (where the transmission bolts to the engine), the sides of the block (under the exhaust manifolds) and the front of the engine, next to the timing cover and inside the intake valley (accessible only by removing the intake manifold).
What causes engine block damage?
Many engine block cracks are caused by contaminants making their way into the metal of the part during the manufacturing process. In these cases, a poorly cast block can start to leak, whether coolant or oil, from the crack itself.
What can go wrong with an engine block?
Being a big, precision machined, hunk of metal, the engine block is designed to last the lifetime of the car. But sometimes things do go wrong. These are the most common engine block failures: Puddle of water/antifreeze under the engine?
Which is the correct term for an engine block?
Another common term for an engine block is simply “block”. De Dion-Bouton engine, circa 1952. The cylinder heads are integrated into the engine block, however the crankcase is separate.
What makes an aluminum engine block an engine?
Aluminum block typically have an iron sleeve pressed into them for the piston bores, or a special hard plating applied to the bores after machining. The block was originally just a block of metal holding the cylinder bores, the water cooling jacket, oil passages, and the crankcase.
Is it possible to repair a cracked engine block?
Engine swaps can be extremely expensive and often not worth the investment in your current vehicle. Also, having a cracked block is one of those extreme cases where it may not be possible to salvage your current engine. There are many who have attempted to repair cracked blocks.