Just hoping,

 

What exactly failed?

 

Well I just bought the short block last night and tore it down today, I couldn't see it with the crank installed. Was going to build a 355. I think the root of the problem was the oil pump gear that the cam turns, it had some teeth missing. Piston was busted too which is probably what caused it to break.

 

hmm id say get an engine shop to look at it...i dont think the rings get down that far so you might be lucky...they might be able to weld there or soemthi nto reinforce it...

 

What the hell was hitting?

 

it will be fine after you get it bored. The skirt of the piston will stick out of there some, but the rings come nowhere close. Make sure the shot smooths the edge off that after they get done boring it too...

 

Any more opinions?

 

It will be fine. Get the block magnafluxed for cracks, then bored/honed and they should grind that area smooth. We have blocks come in like that from race cars, and it is a simple fix.

 

Yea, it looks fine. If it was close after boring, you could always sleeve it. A local shop quoted me $80 for a sleeve. Not bad for peace of mind IMO.

 

good idea never thought of that. since you all say it'll be alright I finished tearing it down today freeze plugs etc. I remember reading about a check ball somewhere I can't find it, wheres is it?

 

There is no check ball. There is a plug in the oil galley under the rear main cap that many people do not know about. Generally it does not need to be removed or replaced, it directs oil to the oil filter, so make sure that it is there before assembling the motor.