Dewayne, I'm going back to work (limited schedule) tomorrow, let me talk to the machine shop foreman there and see what he can come up with okay!? He may know where you could pick up a used or reconditioned block for a reasonable price, and he also has a pretty good rapport with the guys at Dover in Atl.. As Brandon said they can often repair what you've got at very reasonable $. I'll send you a text or call later today, don't throw in the towel yet!
thanks Mark
I am planing my next move, and that is to put the engine back on the stand, once I get my new hydraulic 8 ton long ram jack replaced. That went out on me too, seals went bad, cost more for the rebuild kit, than it does to just buy another.
I want to turn the engine over on the stand, with my block off plate still in place on the engine, and the pan removed.
I want to pressure test the block, and maybe I can see where the location of that crack is. I have been using dark dyed water so I hopefully it will be easy to spot. I am curious...
thanks again Mark, for taking the time to respond, and offer some assistance.
in the mean time I will work on the other parts of the boat, that need attention