I've got about 80K miles on my rebuilt LT1. It was bored .030 over. I started getting coolant loss and when I pulled the heads, I found signs of a leak into the #7 cylinder. I had the heads checked for leaks. They are good and within spec for flatness.

I found pitting on the block deck surface near the coolant port nearest the rear of the block at the bottom. It is located about 1/8 in. from the cylinder. My question is will the new 1074 Felpro gasket seal this or should i have the block decked. I hate to go through another complete rebuilt with only 80K miles on this motor.

If I need to strip the block to get it decked, would you recommend all new bearing or just reuse them?

Here are some pictures of the pitting:

http://upmyphoto.com/image/59004/6c476d2
http://upmyphoto.com/image/59003/0069980

 

It's hard to tell from the pictures so I'd recommend taking it to your local machinist for a 'read'

I also can't speak to the bearing without seeing them. I will share that I never reused bearings once the engine has run.....

 

I have the engine out but I only have the heads off. It is still sitting on the K member and the trans is still attached. I am trying to avoid fully dissassembling the block if I don't have to but it looks like I will need to just take it to the machine shop for evaluation.

I know in a perfect world the deck should be perfect but I was hoping someone would tell me that the gasket would seal it. I know the pictures are a little blurry.

I'll get a better camera and post some clearer pictures. I appreciate the input.

 

I would go with new 1074's.

 

I would roll the dice and not tear that bottom end down. I don't see why a new gasket and new head bolts wouldn't seal that little imperfection.

 

Thanks guys. I did buy new 1074s. I am going to separate the transmission today and pull a few of the accessories off the front and take the engine with bottom end still installed to the machine shop for a look see. I have an extra car so I am not in a rush. I am just trying to avoid unnecessary work and expense.

If I do deck it, then I am trying to decide if I want to zero deck it which would entail having the intake machined also. Decicions, decisions

I hope to post more clear pictures tonight when my buddy brings his professional camera over.