Interesting find

[Sledstormed]

I’m starting to tear down my 51 Cub for rings/valves and noticed I couldn’t remove the oil pan due to a bracket that was bolted to it in the way. Could not find a threads with this bracket so I cut the weld and dropped the pan. Then I noticed this silver sealant plastered in the front right corner of the block. Looks like the front of the block comes off. Do I need to remove this to replace the front seal. It’s currently leaking oil. I can’t tell if the previous owners welded underneath the sealant to repair a crack or just to stop an oil leak. Has anyone seen this type of a repair job before? Thanks

 

[Brandon Webb]

Those blocks crack in that area it's a common problem. If you pull the front cover off the engine the ear will probably come all the way off.

 

[Cubfriend]

If you are overhauling the engine, now would be a good time to replace the block. No point in putting money into a broken block. For what it’s worth, JPTractor Salvage (573)783-7055 has a good deal on blocks that have been hot tanked and checked for cracks, bored w/new pistons and rings. It might be an easy way to get to your final result. Good Luck with your project! P.S. I can’t remember but they may have a valve job too. Check with them. They are good people to deal with and they will ship it to you.

 

[tst]

yes a former owner block repair