Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) do 53 blocks crack often? how many of u?

[CodySanders]

How many of you had this happen?



so i found oil in my radiator today. i know it could be oil cooler, head gasket or a cracked block. i am just wondering how often these motors crack. if you haven't guessed it by now, i have one. will pull oil cooler over the weekend or sooner if i can and test. then pull the head if necessary and look at the gasket. where should i look for the crack if that is what it is? has anyone had the cracked block covered by cummings or dodge? i have read on sites that they will replace the block but not the labor to do it. thanks and its ben one problem after another with me.

 

[BDaugherty]

53 blocks tend to crack below the turbo, just above a horizontal rib cast into the side of the block. I'm not 100%, but I don't think that the typical cracked 53 block would allow oil and water to mix. I have a 53 block that hasn't cracked yet. (knocking on wood right now)

 

[LVJUNIOR]

Cody

For what it's worth. I read posts about this for 3 days and only 1 or 2 12v 53 blocks where witnessed to have cracked 1st hand and those were in high horsepower competition rigs. I think the cracking issue is more of a 24v problem.

 

[budnate]

, 53 Block FAQ and Information

 

[CodySanders]

thanks guys i just figure the worst things happen to me. if it could be a oil cooler a head gasket or a cracked block it is always the worst thing (at least it seams that way). i did a bunch of searching last night and i found a lot of info on here about the 53 block and i belive you are guys are right. probablly would just leak coolant if it was cracked not oil in my water. thanks i will keep ya posted on what i find. i belive it will be the head gasket. 40 on the boost stock head gasket and studs and 110,ooo miles on her and i tow about 18k toyhauler.