Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) bad 53 block

[EERNIE]

i have cracked 53 block on 2001 4x4 182,000mi,:{does Chry offer any help to second owner? can it be welded ? it is cracked at water jacket no water in motor any suggestions ?

Thanks,

 

[Reb.B]

look for another short or long block. it can be welded or stitch welded, but most want it out to weld it, and if its out and you don't swap motors then thats crazy. Just need to bite the bullet or stick a bunch of sodium silicate (liquid glass) from the drug store (about a quart), seal it up and dump it. Not a fun thing to go through.

 

[mediccummin]

Welding or lock and stitch will not work, neither will any type of block sealer, Been there done all those dont waste your money. You wont be able to trade it in on anything else, no dealer will touch it, A few other members have tried that route, even chevy dealers know. Auto dealers know of the problem and that is the first thing they will look at when trading in a 99-01 dodge ctd. Buy a new block from cummins, dont waste your money on a remanu or used, new block runs $1300 and some change but with your mileage you'll have to go through the hole enchilada. At least you got 182k out of it, I did'nt reach 82k, and warranty was worthless. D/C sucks. Good luck.