The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Cracked 216 Engine Block Chevy Truck

Have a cracked block on a perfectly running 52 216
Found a 235 think from a 57
Want to use the 235 but need info about the water pump length and position
Any information would be greatly appreciated

Where is the crack? If it's in the water jacket down low on the driver side, every 216 ever made has that. It can be EASILY patched with epoxy.

Since it's a zero pressure system, it isn't any big deal.

BroB,
I ran my cracked leaking 216 for almost a year. Zero pressure so it was a slow leak. I then put a 1957 235 in. I used the "Adapter" plate..for 216 water pump.

Todd

I moved your thread so you will get the attention it deserves. Posting a question in another thread (aka, piggybacking) is frowned upon in forums. It confuses the readers as we don’t know what question is being addressed. it’s always better to start a new thread.

While I have your ear, Welcome to the ‘bolt! Spend a little time and introduce yourself in the “Welcome Center” forum. Tell us a bit about yourself and your truck.

And of course we bolters love pictures so include a few. Here’s a link to instructions on how to add pictures to a post.

Let me give you this helpful guide to help you navigate thru the different forums on Stovebolt.

i had a 235 that was cracked down the side we put a blanket over the radiator and got it good and hot then poured a bottle of Bars Leak in it. it never leaked a drop for 5 years that i had it.
Jay D.

Back to the original question- - - -the late model 235 from mid-year 55 to 63 has a water pump that is recessed into the front of the engine block. The shaft is too long to work with the 1952 radiator, and the fan will sit too low on the radiator for good cooling. The simplest fix is to use the adapter plate that Stovebolt forum member "Pre-68 Dave" makes and sells. It allows the 216 style high mount water pump to be used with the late model 235 engine. Another option is to use a hydraulic press to push the fan hub back about an inch on the late model pump and shorten the shaft by the same amount. That does not solve the fan position problem. You will also need to use a 216 harmonic balancer to keep the water pump and fan speed correct when using the 216 type pump. Please don't scrap the 216 engine- - - -I'd be interested in it, with or without the crack.
Jerry