Cracked block! Repair or replace?

Anonymous-0

Well-known Member
I just got the sleeves outta my little farmall A and cleaned the block all up and found that it is cracked between all of the cylinders. Ive rebuilt a fair number of motors but have never got one with a a crack. Do you guys think that this block is repairable or should i start lookin for a replacement? Its a 1939 A without a water pump. I don't know how to post pictures or i would show you. Thanks in advance
 
I would replace the block with a good used one.
Someone on the Farmall forum may have a parts tractor with a good block. I would place a request over there. Use the Advanced Posting Tools for posting your pictures. You need your pictures stored on your computer like "My Documents" as APT will take you there automatically. Click on "Upload Photo", then on "Browse" then select your picture, then click on "save" then on "upload" when your picture appears in the "window" click on "Continue".
Then click on "Preview Your Reply" and see if your pic appears with your message. Hal
 
If your block is cracked in All cyl. that block is done. You can use a block from an A or B farmall up 1946 as they are the same even newer on an A or Super A as long as no H2O pump on newer block. If your going to restore the tractor do it right you will not be sorry. This is only one mans opinion I hope it helps. Doug
 
Yes i am restoring the tractor it was my grandfathers, but i will also be using it as it has a woods mower under it. I want it done right and i don't like cutting corners. I figured it was toast but wanted another persons thoughts. Thanks again
 
Theres on for sale just look at implement parts on the photo adds on this site 417-669-8511 or you can send it to Williams in Nevada,Iowa and they can weld it. If its cracked between the cycls i would get another block. I dont have any more rite now or i would sell you one. They go for around 200 or more as they arent making any new one been a long time since production ended in 47. You can replace with one from a C or SC and block off the hy pump space. You can also get one from a baler or a combine. They had the starter mounted forward below the filter but they will work on a tractor. I do have one of those. I also have an A with one of those engines and they work just fine
 
There you go nice for that fellow to post about his engine go for it you will have an extra head and cramk to sell pluss lots of other stuff.
 
You will need new sleeves and pistons. You can get 3 1/8 kit bearings and gaskets from Abilene tractor parts delivered to your front door for less than 400 just tell them what size for the bearings then you can get the 6ft Woods and be in tall cotton.
 
I would love to have that block. Only problem is i live in Ontario. theres alot of miles between us. I certianly apperciate your time and help.
 
from what i gather it is cracked between each cyl.on top so you must have 3 cracks to deal with. that is nothing serious. i would get them v'd out and fill the cracks with devcon then get the top of block planned and your set to go.even if it got put together as is i am sure it will be fine. want to spend lots on it then you can do the welding thing but i dont think its required.
 
I don`t know if the engine is saveable or not, but if it can be saved for close to equal money what a replacement cost, I`d do it. The engine serial # is matched to the chassis serial # on the A`s and B`s, so just to keep it numbers matching would be worth it to me. Just something to think about.
 
Rustred what is Devcon? Ive never heard of it? How does it work? Have you used it? The cracks are right on top of the block and there is 3 cracks, But they go into the webbing right below the deck. The cracks appear to be right were the block was put together. Id like to keep this block if possible.
 
devcon is a better form of J B weld . it is like a paste. yes i have used it with good results. i did the very similar same thing as you have there. thats why i say to use it and then plane the head.should be able to v out the cracks with a dremel tool.on my block got it warmed up good then give it the devcon treatment and then wrapped it in insulation to cool slowly . dont know if this was nesessary but it worked and is still going after 14 years.
 
Thank you very much tempola. Its good to know that there are people out there that are still willing to help others. I will most deffently be keeping you in mind if i can not fix mine or find another one.
Chris
 
I dont see any reason the Devcon wouldnt work, I worked a lot with that stuff long time ago with good results. There isnt that much stress on that block in that area. The headbolts will keep the block from trying to move. Sure wouldnt hurt to go sith that.
 
Just type in DEVCON and it will come up they have a bunch of stuff and its even priced so you can get it rite from the site.
 
Chris, I have seen quite a few C113's cracked in that area, and to the same extent. I have also see successful re-use of those cracked blocks and I have seen failures.

So, if you decide to give it a try, here are things to consider. These engines are thermo siphon. No pressure from the cooling system. These engines are low compression and low RPM. I believe it was Gene's comment that that area is low stress, and I agree. Also, these are sleeved engines, another plus.

The absolute best route is a good used block. However, if that doesn't work out, you can certainly try to use this one. The only potential waste of $$$ is the head gasket and your time.

Interesting thought. I have taken heads off of C113 engines to do valve jobs and found the block cracked in the same area as yours. Aside from needing a valve job, the engines ran fine, ie. no oil in coolant, and no coolant in oil. If I hadn't pulled the head, I would never have know it was cracked. Long story short: you have to decide, because "your mileage may vary"! :wink:
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top