Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 53 block question???

[pfreer]

I know this is probably searchable, but it kept giving me "minimum wording" problems so I'll post up here.

What is the 53 block problem, and how do I determine if I have one?



Thanks

 

[JGheen]

There is a engine block number on the side of the block just below the injection pump that should tell you what block it is. I am not sure how many numbers of blocks there are but supposedly the "53" blocks have a high tendency to crack. Maybe someone else will chime in with some more info.

 

[CumminsPower98]

If you have a 53 block it will be pretty obvious. There will be 1" tall letters "53" cast into the block just above the oil pan and a few inches from the front on the left front corner. Like

JGheen said they have a thinner casting in some areas and can crack. I think the main place for cracking is between the freeze plugs on the passenger side. That's all I know about it.

 

[TPCDrafting]

This is what it looks like on mine. [/IMG]#ad

 

[JGheen]

Curious to know what other numbers are found on these blocks? Like how many different numbers of blocks came out of the factory? I looked on mine and all I could find was a #5 on the side of the block, no 3 after it so I guess mine is a "5" block, but not sure, anyone know?

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

I haven't spent much time on the 12v forum until recently, but from what I understand it's unheard of for a 12v 53 block to have cracking problems. Could be due to the softer combustion, less clatter than the 24v. Just a thought?



Vaughn

 

[DHorstman]

I heard of the '53' block and didn't think much of it, thought it was a 24V issue. After reading this thread I crawled under mine at 12. 30AM, it's a 53 block.



My truck is a early '98, built in late '97, and has over 150K. We beat the hell out of it over the weekend on the dunes and there is no coolant leak as of yet. Guess I won't worry about it after all.