Cast Iron Welding

Cast iron welding is never effective in repairing cracks in cast iron engine blocks unless the complete part is heated to over 1,000°F. One instance where it should never be attempted on an assembled engine is the "53" Cummins 5.9-liter engine. Though not an issue in every case, a number of these engines have developed cracks in the side of the block.

The cast iron experts of LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. researched this cracking issue with each repair they made on those engines built between 1999 and 2001. The conclusions they came to were quite interesting. Among them: these cracks do not develop as a result of higher horsepower or heavier loads, but more often as the result of not letting the engine warm up fully before driving away.

In addition, because of the shape of the block in this area, the cast iron is thinner, resulting in the weakest area of the block. This weaker area, coupled with the physics of thermal expansion on a cold day, can lead to cracking long before the engine's projected lifespan is over. LNS has found the answer and it avoids the problems associated with welding.

The solution is a metal stitch job coupled with a support bracket, both of which fix the damage and also prevent further cracking. LNS is known as the company that can get to the bottom of cast iron issues and find a solution. To find out the best way to get your LNS solution, just call 800-736-8261 or 209-632-2345, or email them directly at gary@locknstitch.com.