Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Any luck repairing a 53 block?

[AFoulk]

My gf's dad called me today and wanted to know all about repairing the 53 blocks I guess he found a 99 dually with only 120k miles on it for dirt cheap because it has infamous 53 block and its cracked. He told me the guy that builds the engines for his race car knows a guy that has welded cracks in engine blocks for him numerous times with good results. I was wondering if anyone else has had good results trying this? I do know about the locknstitch kits too and let him know about that option too. I told him, if it were me, I'd just try and find a used 12v for it (he'd rather have something with a mechanical pump anyways). Anyways, just wondered if anyone has had any luck repairing them. Kinda surprised me that he even considered a dodge, with him being a diehard chevy guy. Almost brought a tear to my eye that he wanted advice on it from me

 

[RDMueller]

I've been doing a bunch of research the past few weeks on the 53 block since I'm currently looking for a 2nd gen Ram CTD. Seems like most people don't believe locknstich is a permanent solution. Welding is not an option from what I've read. I think the only options are to either give locknstich a try - might buy you some time; replace the engine with one from a wrecked truck; or get a new short block and move the rest of the parts over. Based on my research, I will be trying to avoid one with a 53 block. The odds of it actually cracking are fairly low, but why take the chance. As far as buying one that has a known cracked block - it depends on the deal. If it is for sale cheap enough that the cost of replacing the engine still makes it attractive, go for it! Make sure though first that you can find an engine. Type "53 block" into google and you'll find a ton more info. Good luck!