I just bought an ls b18a1 block,it has a small hole near where the timing cover bolts on, i was wondering if it would be ok to weld it since theres really no pressure going thru there?

 

It is okay to weld although I recommend taking it to a professional. Information varies some say it's better to braze a engine block some say it's better to weld, I recommend asking your local machine shop.

 

i guess what im asking is , is it fixable.

 

Definitely fixable. Cast welding is a little tricky, but it's not spells and incantations. Do it yourself if you have cast iron experience or take it to a welding shop. Thing with cast is pre- and post-heating. Even heat distribution is critical. Iron can shatter if heated or cooled improperly, and will crack eventually if heat during and after the welding process is not managed properly.

 

Must be the first cast-iron B18.

 

I am sure he meant cast aluminum.

 

I know, seemed like everyone else was talking about cast iron though.

 

No, I think its the fact that you had no idea b-series blocks, all honda blocks for that matter, are cast aluminum. Its ok you can admit it because no where does it SEEM like they are implying cast iron.

 

So it will be ok , even though its cast alluminum i can still make this motor purr again.

 

lol.

 

It can be fixed. Cast aluminum usually isn't as bad to crack when welded as cast steels are. Also, cast metals are much better than they used to be.

If it were me, I'd grind the crack out to be a groove about 1/8" deep, and TIG it up in one pass. ...no preheat or postheat.

 

Ya but people aren't as good as you!

 

What about the 89 and older accords, 87 and older preludes, and 83 and older Civics. They are all cast Iron blocks. There are also plenty of motorcycles that use cast iron blocks.