How to Fix a Crack in the Engine Block

The engine block in a standard automobile holds the cylinders of the combustion engine, which is usually made of cast metal to help protect the engine. In automobile accidents, it is common for the engine block to sustain damage and obtain cracks. Engine blocks are either repaired through welding or by metal stitching, which is also known as metal locking. Although welding is traditionally the more popular solution to cracks in the engine block, welding can actually create damage and cause the engine block to fail faster than with metal stitching. Metal stitching is a quick process that can be done in a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Metal stitching kit
• Hammer
• Drill
• Long tap

Instructions

1. Remove the engine from the car.

2. Drill into the top of the engine block through the fins on the exterior wall of the cylinders, which is outside of the gasket.

3. Use the long tap to widen the entrance hole so the stitching bolts can fit through the drilled holes. Alternately, you can use a hammer to fit the stitching bolts into the cracks.

4. Fit the metal stitching bolts into the holes tightly.

5. Seal the stitching bolts to the engine with the sealant provided in the metal stitching kit.