JunkCarsUs research shows the importance of the next point, which is often forgotten. The article will be about the nature of engine operation, and you will understand what causes engine block to crack.
The car engine is one of the key elements. Over time, various malfunctions can occur with it, including the appearance of all kinds of deformations of its component parts. One of such problems may be the appearance of cracks in the cylinder block or cylinder head. Such a malfunction if not detected in time can lead to serious consequences and even the need for an engine overhaul. Cracks in the engine cylinder block can occur for a variety of reasons. This article will discuss the difficulty in detail and describe the ways in which it can be successfully resolved.
Table of Contents
How to understand if there are cracks in the cylinder block
The following symptoms should be alarmed, and the power unit should be sent for further diagnosis:
- Regular overheating of the engine;
- Presence of problems with thermocouple operation;
- The expansion tank has air pockets and does not hold pressure;
- The pressure gauge displays incorrect readings;
- Occurrence of vibrations in the engine.
If there are cracks in the cylinder block the system is no longer airtight, therefore, the coolant begins to leak and this contributes to overheating of the engine. This symptom can also be a consequence of a blowhole or other defects in the cylinder block gasket. A concern with the temperature control unit may result in severe engine overheating. However, one of the most characteristic signs indicating the presence of cracks in the cylinder block is exactly the excessive vibration and thrashing of the engine. This phenomenon is especially noticeable when climbing uphill.
How to detect a problem
Since not all cylinder block cracks are accompanied by tangible and visible consequences, the presence of micro-cracks can be detected by such methods:
- Pneumatic crimping;
- With the use of magnetically sensitive equipment;
- With ultrasonic scanning;
- Hydrocontrol.
Thanks to each of the above methods, it is possible to quickly identify micro-cracks in the cylinder block and their specific location. More often than not, the problem is detected in specialized service centers by injecting water or air inside the cylinder block. If water seeps in, it means that there is a crack in the diagnosed place. If, on the other hand, the diagnosis is made with air, the cracks can be recognized by the presence of bubbles on the surface of the water.
How are the cracks removed
The way of its elimination depends in many respects on how big the formed crack is. But in some situations, it is reasonable to make a full replacement of the block, because partial repair will not allow achieving the desired result. Based on the above, you can eliminate cracks in the cylinder block in the following ways:
- The method of welding;
- The method of applying epoxy and glass cloth;
- By the SEAL-LOCK method.
As for the latter, it is quite labor-intensive, but it gives an opportunity to seal the cracks without welding, and without dismantling the motor. The essence of this method is based on the elimination of cracks, by filling them with soft metal.
