Engine Block Welding

Before you fire up your torch and begin welding an engine block crack, make sure that your solution won't add to the problem. In most cases--including the Cummins 5.9-liter with the number 53 cast on the drivers side of the block on engines built between 1999 and 2001--any electric or torch weld will do more damage than good--and it won't address the underlying issue.

Electric welding done below 1,200°F is unfortunately commonly applied to cracking problems, but cast iron simply cannot withstand the stress of this type of welding. The real damage comes from the fact that once you've welded this area and it fails, a better fix such as metal stitching can't be easily done. The area will have become too hard to be drilled or tapped with several additional new cracks and leaks.

For a comprehensive and long-lasting solution to this and other engine block cracks, let LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. help. As cast-iron repair experts to everyone from Cummins Diesel to Caterpillar, the experts at LNS are known for understanding the deeper issues and finding solutions that work for the long run. For this particular cracking issue, LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. uses their own patented metal stitches and new reinforcing bracket for additional strength to prevent future cracking.

LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. knows that some engine owners are prepared to do their own repairs and others aren't. If you're ready to do this repair yourself, LNS offers repair kits, as well as step-by-step instructions and technical support. The LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. technicians can also come to your site and do the repair for you. To talk about your choices, contact LNS today at 800-736-8261, 209-632-2345, or gary@locknstitch.com.