Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 53 block/heater

[dieselsam59]

After checking about five times i finally came to the sad truth that i have a #53 block. I have been revieving past posts about this subject. I would appreciate as much info as possible on this subject. Reading the posts brought up another question what is the relationship between block cracks and block heaters. Last winter when using my block heater for the first~10 times it made a loud snap(engine still hot) after that just normal block heater sounds. I have not thoroghly checked for a crack yet but i do know the suspected area is moist- possible spilled oil My truck is a stock daily aggressive driver. do guys who dont use block heaters have crack problems too?



any info is appreciated

 

[dresslered]

Block heaters and cracked 53 blocks have nothing in common! The snap that you heard was probably no more than expansion of the heater element--no harm done. The cracking of the 53 block is most common in school bus applications but on occassion it has found its way over to our trucks. The crack has been reported to occur on the passenger side rear, just below the freeze plugs, where the water jacket casting has only about 6mm thickness (later blocks have beefed this up to 12mm). Use your truck and your block heater just as you would normally use it and you'll be just fine. Your block won't crack and you won't win the lottery either (it's a long shot!)



P. S. I've got a 53 as well.