GM Blocks & Components

Engine Block Care and Maintenance 101

The worst has happened. You've sprung a coolant leak -- there's water or antifreeze under your engine. If it's a small-block crate engine like a 350, under the hood of, say, a classic Chevy, that can be a bigger deal than it might seem. That's because you've already ruled out a bad water pump, a faulty radiator, a failed heater core, and hose issues. And you've got a loose or corroded freeze-out plug on top of that.

What's likely happened: the engine block's gone bad. See any damage to it, like cracks, or find that it's porous (from a defect), and most likely, it can't be rebuilt; you'll have to replace it. We've got the new one you've been looking for; it's OEM quality, and better yet, steeply discounted.

Once you've done that, classic cast-iron or more modern aluminum alloy, it'll have to stay durable enough to last a lifetime. One of the best ways to help it do that: give it a good cleaning during engine maintenance. Good thing you came to us at GM Wholesale Direct for advice on what to do.

Here's how cleaning usually goes, for Chevy and most other GM engine blocks.

Step 1: Prep

In a well-ventilated area with proper drainage, set up a container or tarp where you'll be doing the cleaning. Put on all necessary safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses.

Step 2: Remove Grease and Oil

You can go one of two routes here: using a degreaser or steam-cleaning. If you choose degreasing, apply your solution to the whole block, scrub all surfaces, and rinse the block thoroughly with water. If you choose to use a steam cleaner, steam all surfaces while scrubbing them.

2a. for Aluminum Engine Blocks

You can choose to use an aluminum-safe cleaner if you prefer. They'll help avoid any unexpected chemical reactions. Follow the cleaner manufacturer's instructions closely, and rinse the cleaner off afterward. For the scrubbing part of the job, use a soft-bristled brush or pad; it'll help prevent scratches.

2b. for Cast-Iron Engine Blocks

You can choose to use a rust dissolver if you prefer. Apply it to rusty spots, following the manufacturer's directions. Let the dissolver penetrate the rust, then scrub it away gently with a wire brush. Rinse the block afterward.

Now that you've got a clean block, it'll go a long way toward your vehicle's engine running as well as it can.

Of course, there's more to consider when cleaning an engine block. After, say, machining it, let alone before building an engine, there can be pressure-washing to do, for example, or rinsing with (or soaking in) solvent. As with any maintenance, follow all manufacturer instructions to the letter.

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